How to Answer Motivational Questions in Job Interviews Effectively

Job interviews can often seem like a maze of questions designed to put the candidate under scrutiny. Among these, motivational questions hold a special place, as they aim to uncover what truly drives a candidate. Motivational questions are very common, and almost 80% of hiring managers ask motivation-related questions during a job interview. If you're wondering why employers are so keen on these questions and how best to prepare for them, read on.

1. Why Do Companies Ask Motivational Questions?

Understanding Candidate Drive

The most obvious reason is to understand what motivates a candidate. Companies are interested in knowing what makes you tick—whether it's the allure of a challenging role, the team environment or simply monetary gains. Your answer can provide valuable insights into your work ethic and your potential fit within the company culture.

Long-term Compatibility

Motivational questions can also reveal how aligned you are with the company's objectives. Companies prefer candidates who not only have the skills for the job but also a strong intrinsic motivation that resonates with the organisation's mission.

Assessing Soft Skills

These questions help to evaluate soft skills like communication, problem-solving and emotional intelligence. How you articulate your motivations and respond to follow-up questions can speak volumes about your interpersonal skills.

2. How to Prepare for Motivational Questions

Self-Reflection

Before attending any interview, spend time reflecting on your career goals, achievements and what truly motivates you in a professional setting. It is crucial that you know yourself well to answer these questions authentically.

Research the Company

Knowing the company's culture, mission, and values can guide you in tailoring your answers to show alignment with the organisation. Use this information to make your responses more compelling.

Research the Role and Industry

Understanding the specific responsibilities tied to the role you're applying for and the broader trends in the industry can provide you with additional talking points during the interview. This research can also help you articulate why you're interested in the job and how your skills and motivations align with both the role and the industry.

Practice Makes Perfect

It's always beneficial to practise your answers but remember, the goal is not to memorise them verbatim. You should be able to adapt your answers according to the specific questions asked.

3. Example Questions and How to Answer Them

Question: What motivates you?

Poor Answer: "I am motivated by money. I applied for this job because of the salary it offers"

This answer is too simplistic and could imply that you might switch jobs as soon as a higher-paying opportunity comes along.

Better Answer: "I am deeply motivated by the opportunity to solve complex problems. The joy I find in untangling complicated issues and delivering efficient solutions is immeasurable. This is why I'm particularly drawn to your organisation, which is known for its innovative approach to problem-solving."

Question: Why do you want to work here?

Poor Answer: "You have a great reputation, and I think it would look good on my CV."

This answer makes it all about you and not about how you can contribute to the company.

Better Answer: "I'm impressed by your company's commitment to sustainability and your innovative projects in renewable energy. These are causes I am passionate about and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to meaningful work here."

Question: Why do you want to do this job?

Poor Answer: "I need a job to pay the bills."

While this may be a factual statement, it does not offer any insights into your interest in the specific role or how you might be a good fit for it.

Better Answer: "The role of a Project Manager appeals to me because it combines my passion for leading teams with my skills in time management and problem-solving. I relish the idea of overseeing a project from conception to completion, ensuring that it not only meets but exceeds expectations. This role allows me to utilise my talents in a way that can make a significant impact on the company's success."

Question: Why do you want to work in this industry?

Poor Answer: "I've heard it's a lucrative field." or "Many of my friends work in this industry. So I decided to work in this industry."

These responses, much like the poor answer for what motivates you, focus solely on financial gain or "I do what others do" and do not convey any passion for the industry.

Better Answer: "The healthcare industry has always fascinated me because of its direct impact on people's lives. Innovations in this field have the power to drastically improve the quality of life for millions. Being a part of an industry that contributes to societal well-being is incredibly motivating for me. Moreover, the ever-evolving nature of healthcare technology presents continuous challenges, making the work both fulfilling and intellectually stimulating."

Motivational questions are more than just a hurdle to cross during the interview process; they offer candidates a chance to showcase their drive, values and compatibility with the company. With thoughtful preparation and authentic answers, you can turn these questions into an opportunity to shine. It is important to remember that providing detailed answers with specific examples always helps you provide better insight during the interview, and they would be favoured by the hiring managers.

If you want to further improve your interview skills, you can also register and join our interview workshop.