These questions range from, “What are you passionate about?” to simply, “What motivates you?” Another question employers ask is, “Are you self-motivated?”
What Interviewers Really Want to Know
Employers want to know that you will be an enthusiastic employee who is committed to your work. They want to know that you will do your best work—even without a boss asking you to do so, or the promise of a reward. Therefore, when an employer asks, “Are you self-motivated?” you should say yes. However, a strong answer to this question will go beyond a one-word answer, and will include specific examples of your self-motivation.
How to Answer Questions About Your Motivation
When you answer this question, provide one or two specific examples of times when you demonstrated your passion for and dedication to your job. Be sure that you focus on examples of times when you did exemplary work, not because of external influences—a boss telling you to do something, or a monetary incentive—but because of your passion for the task. These kinds of examples can also show how you motivate yourself in difficult times. If you are new on the job market or changing careers, you do not have to give an example from work. Instead, think of a time when you did exemplary work simply out of a passion for the project. Perhaps you organized and led an event for your extracurricular group, or worked to perfect an assignment for school (as long as you did this work because of your interest in the topic, not because of concern for your grade). For example, perhaps you joined and participated in a professional organization, or held a number of informational interviews with people at the top of the field. Emphasize that you were motivated not just by the desire to get a job, but to learn more about an industry you are passionate about.
Examples of the Best Answers
Why It Works: In this response, the candidate gives a strong yes — and then goes on to provide a work-related example. Why It Works: This response gives an example that shows off how hard-working the candidate is. Why It Works: This response makes it clear that self-motivation is one of the candidate’s core traits. Why It Works: In this candidate’s response, there is a connection to the applicant’s self-motivation in a venue that’s similar to the job at hand. This is a strong industry-focused response.
Tips for Giving the Best Answer
Be positive. Your answer should always start in the affirmative. It’s helpful to be enthusiastic and upbeat as well.Share examples. Providing instances of a time when you were self-motivated will be persuasive.
What Not to Say
A negative response. Lying is never good, but even if you need a bit of a nudge sometimes to get going, this is not the time to disclose that.A one-word answer. Sometimes questions about motivation are framed as yes/no questions — but that doesn’t mean that responding with one word is sufficient.External motivators. In general, your response should stay away from external motivators — like a paycheck or bonus — and focus more on how you were able to find inspiration in the task or project.
Possible Follow-Up Questions
What else motivates you? Tell me about a time when you struggled with motivation. What are you passionate about?
Go beyond “yes.” Share examples that show how you’re self-motivated. You’ve got options even if you don’t have on-the-job experience. Turn to extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or internships if you are entry level.
