Navigating the “What Motivates You?” Question in Interviews
Ever felt that “What motivates you?” is one of those curveball questions in interviews? 🙄 You’re not alone! The word “motivation” can feel big and intimidating, especially when you’re trying to articulate it effectively. With so many factors—intrinsic, extrinsic—it can seem like you need to craft a perfect, deep answer that ties your values and life story together.
Keep it simple
But it doesn’t have to be that complicated. Instead of overthinking your response, try reflecting on past experiences where you felt energized and engaged at work. Think of moments when you were genuinely excited, productive, and part of something meaningful. This approach will help you share an authentic answer that resonates with the interviewer.
Find Your Best Moments
For example, you might say “I thrive when I’m part of a collaborative team working towards a common goal. One of my favorite projects was when we launched a new product and had to overcome a lot of challenges together. The sense of teamwork and seeing our efforts pay off was incredibly motivating. I believe this aligns perfectly with the team culture at [Company Name], where collaboration and innovation are at the forefront of every project.”
This answer does a few things:
- Relatability: It shares a real experience, making your response relatable and genuine.
- Clarity: It clearly defines what motivates you without getting overly complex.
- Connection: It demonstrates how you value collaboration and teamwork, aligning your motivation with potential organizational values.
When you approach the question this way, it lifts the pressure of crafting a “perfect” story. Instead, you’re sharing a meaningful snippet of your professional journey that showcases what truly drives you. So, next time that question comes up, embrace the opportunity to share what genuinely fuels your passion!