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How to answer "What Motivates You?" question

Updated: Apr 28, 2019



Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I'm possible”! - Audrey Hepburn.

What motivates you?


Why Do Interviewers Ask "What Motivates You?"

With this question, interviewers want to find out if the factors that motivate you will be present in your position and within the company culture.


If not, you won’t stay. Your answer also gives them some insights into your personality and style, helping them understand you as both a person and a potential employee.


How To Answer the Interview Question "What Motivates You?"

• Take some time to reflect. When you had a great day at work or in college, what made it feel so satisfying? Did you help someone? Did you learn something new? Did you check something big

off your list?

• Narrow it down to one or two. It’s usually a combination of factors – making a difference, seeing tangible results, helping people, overcoming challenges, prestige/title, money, learning,

or growing.


• Add a story to bring it to life. This is a great question to show a bit of your personality.


Sample Answer to "What Motivates You?"

"My best day is when the hours fly by because I’m so busy working on an application. I love thinking through the user’s needs, solving problems, and creating something new and useful. My motivation is seeing the application in place, working perfectly."


Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right.
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