How to Answer “What Motivates You?” in an Interview

When faced with the “What motivates you?” interview question, it’s tempting to say, “Well, not being broke is a start.” But let’s aim higher, shall we?

It’s a broad question, and there is no one right answer. However, there is a way to answer it correctly.

When an interviewer asks what keeps you motivated?, they are really asking: What drives you to succeed? What makes you tick? What energizes you? What inspires you?

This question is deeper than how it appears at face value, and your response answers more than just the base question.

Your reply to the motivation question tells them how you would fit in with the company culture.

On top of that, the interviewer gains insight into how you would be as an employee, which is crucial. After all, these interviews are designed to find the company the best possible candidate.

Here are some of the ways you can effectively answer this question.

1. Show you’re the right candidate

Thoroughly study the company when preparing for the interview. Check out their LinkedIn and other social media platforms, website, and any other public information. Learn about their values and mission, and pay attention to the language used to describe them.

When answering “What motivates you?” align your work values with the company to show you fit in with their culture, mission, and work environment.

2. Be specific

Real-life examples are essential to put theory into practice. Numbers, stats, or particular challenges are great for illustrating the kind of worker you are. Rather than explaining what you would do, tell them what you’ve done.

3. Focus on work-related motivators

A job interview isn’t the place to talk about your hobbies or personal pursuits — unless the recruiter asks. Keep your answer professional. Here are a few work-related motivators to consider:

• Collaboration and working as a team
• The joy of reaching personal goals
• Seeing positive results
• Solving difficult challenges
• Learning new skills
• Creating solutions that improve people’s lives
• Pursuing your passion

4. Be clear and straightforward

A great answer doesn’t just address the specific question but also demonstrates your communication skills.

A valuable communication skill is communicating your ideas quickly and effectively. Imagine your “What motivates you?” interview answer like a map: You’re trying to get from A to B as concisely as possible, without roadblocks or detours.

5. Talk yourself up

The interview is your opportunity to put a face to the name. Be your biggest champion. Talk about what you’re passionate about, the work experiences that have impacted you and the ones you’d like to gain, your skills, and how all these things contribute to your admirable work ethic.

Do you want to hear you’re hired? Then start practicing with an expert interview coach now. Get access to a mock interview tool, use interview questions, and receive instant feedback. Don’t let another opportunity pass you by.

Sample answers to “What motivates you?”

Example #1

“I’ve been coding since middle school when I was first exposed to it. My mom is a software developer and helped me whenever I needed it. Coding has been “it” for me ever since, and I’ve become an expert in Java and C++. I think about coding from the minute I wake up until I go to sleep. Solving problems with coding is what challenges me, motivates me, and drives me to be successful.”

Example #2

“I’m addicted to planning! Being organized at work and at home drives me to make sure I have enough time to achieve my goals and give my best in all I do. It ensures that I don’t overtask myself so I can focus on doing quality work and not get burned out by working consistently long hours on any one project. Good time management helps me maintain consistently excellent standards.”

Example #3

“Providing outstanding customer service is what drives me. I worked as a mobile sales associate for a local credit union. The days were hectic with solving customer issues and answering questions. I worked hard to understand their queries and explain the how and why of our processes and operations. It really motivated me and upped my confidence whenever customers gave me a great review and a high rating.”