The Best Way to Approach the Question “What Motivates You?” Interview Question
There are many questions to expect in an interview , but sometimes the questions are so broad that you don’t know how to answer them right away. A little thought before your interview can prepare you for one of the most open-ended questions you can face.
So what motivates you? You could probably list a lot. The problem is, most of the things on this list are not necessarily the best answer for a potential employer. Lynn Taylor, workplace expert and author of Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant , invites you to think about your job before meeting for an interview:
If you don’t have a plan, you might inadvertently offer a vague answer that makes you seem unmotivated or disinterested, or you just look like a deer in the headlights … Obligate to write what wakes you up in the morning when you think about work … What types of projects have brought you the most job satisfaction and why? What do you talk about in social situations when you get inspired by your work?
The more specific you can be about your motivation for what you do, the better. Don’t give them a formulaic response like “I like working with people” or “I love selling.” How about working with people that makes you horny, and why is selling important to you? Remember, you are trying to convince them that you are the person who will solve all their problems. Explain what will support you in any direction.
Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childhood Boss Behavior and Succeed in Your Job | Amazon via Business Insider