How to Answer What Motivates You in an Interview
Navigating through the interview process can be challenging, especially when you’re asked questions that delve into your personal motivations. One such question that often catches candidates off guard is, “What motivates you?” This question is not just about understanding your personal drive but also about assessing how well your motivations align with the company’s culture and values. In this article, we will explore how to answer what motivates you in an interview effectively.
Understand the Context
Before crafting your answer, it’s crucial to understand the context of the question. Is the interviewer trying to gauge your work ethic, your passion for the industry, or your alignment with the company’s mission? Knowing this will help you tailor your response to address their specific concerns.
Be Specific
Avoid vague answers like “money” or “success.” Instead, provide specific examples that showcase your unique motivations. For instance, you might say, “I am motivated by the opportunity to learn and grow in my field. I thrive in environments where I can take on new challenges and contribute to innovative projects.” This demonstrates that you have a clear understanding of what drives you and how it relates to the role you’re applying for.
Relate to the Company
When answering what motivates you, it’s important to connect your motivations to the company’s goals and values. Research the company’s mission, culture, and recent achievements. Then, explain how your motivations align with what the company stands for. For example, if the company is known for its commitment to sustainability, you might say, “I am motivated by the desire to make a positive impact on the environment, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your company’s sustainability initiatives.”
Highlight Your Work Ethic
Employers are not just looking for what motivates you but also how you go about achieving your goals. Highlight your work ethic by discussing your approach to problem-solving, time management, and collaboration. For instance, you could say, “I am motivated by the desire to excel in my work, and I achieve this by setting clear goals, prioritizing tasks, and working effectively with my team.”
Be Authentic
Authenticity is key when answering what motivates you. Avoid fabricating motivations that you think the interviewer wants to hear. Instead, be honest about what truly drives you. This will help you build a genuine connection with the interviewer and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
Conclude with a Call to Action
To wrap up your answer, conclude with a call to action that shows your enthusiasm for the role. For example, you might say, “I am excited about the opportunity to bring my motivations and skills to your team and contribute to the company’s success.” This reinforces your interest in the position and leaves a lasting impression on the interviewer.
In conclusion, answering what motivates you in an interview requires a thoughtful and tailored approach. By understanding the context, being specific, relating to the company, highlighting your work ethic, being authentic, and concluding with a call to action, you can craft a compelling answer that showcases your motivations and aligns with the company’s values.
