What Motivates You To Do A Good Job? (Interview question with answers)

What motivates you to do a good job? This question that hiring managers frequently ask candidates during interviews can throw off even the most experienced candidates.

Knowing that this might be asked during your next interview, it's crucial to ensure you're adequately prepared with a solid response.

---

Why do employers ask what motivates you at work?

This question is more complex than it first appears, and your solution provides additional context for the subject. During a job interview, prospective employers can determine whether you are a suitable fit for their business and whether you genuinely fit with the corporate culture by finding out what drives you.

Interviewers learn more about how the position they are filling will fit the candidate's objectives by inquiring about the applicant's motivations.

They want to know if your motivational factors and long-term objectives coincide with their own, those of the company, and how they envision the position developing.

Additionally, the interviewer learns important information about how you would behave in the workplace. After all, these interviews aim to identify the most outstanding applicant for the firm.

How to Respond to "What motivates you to do a good job?”

Let's look at some strategies to formulate an answer that's authentic to you and impressive to your potential employer.

Reflect on Your Experiences

Consider your past experiences and identify what truly energizes you at work. Is it overcoming challenges? Collaborating with a team? Learning new skills? Pinpoint your motivations, and you're well on your way to a compelling answer.

Align with the Job Description

Your motivation should ideally align with the responsibilities and opportunities of the role. For example, if you're applying for a customer service position and you're motivated by helping others, make sure to highlight that.

Give Concrete Examples

A great way to demonstrate your motivation is by giving examples from your past experiences. This helps to illustrate your motivation in action and gives your answer more credibility.

---

Example Interview Responses

• For Team-Oriented Roles: "I'm motivated by collaboration and teamwork. There's something incredibly rewarding about working towards a common goal with my team. For instance, in my previous role, we had a challenging project with a tight deadline. Despite the pressure, working as a cohesive unit to deliver a top-quality product on time was highly satisfying."

• For Problem-Solving Roles: "I thrive on problem-solving. Unraveling a complex issue and finding a viable solution is immensely fulfilling. In my last role as a software developer, troubleshooting and resolving bugs in the code was a challenge I eagerly embraced."

• For Roles Requiring Continual Learning: "I am motivated by the opportunity to learn new skills and grow professionally. I find that continual learning keeps my work exciting and allows me to perform better. For instance, in my previous role, I sought training and development opportunities that helped me excel in my position.

• Final Note: Remember, there are no 'one-size-fits-all' answers. The best response is genuine to you and relevant to the role.

Variations of the interview question 'What motivates you at work?'

• What motivates you?

• What motivates you to do a good job?

• What drives you to do a good job?

• What motivates you in life?

• How can we best help you get your job done?

• What motivates you to succeed in life?

• What motivates you to succeed at work?

• What is most important to you in your career?

• Are you money motivated?

• What drives you to work?

• What motivates you to go to work every day?

• What demotivates you at work?

---

Wrapping Up | Job interview question about motivation

While it's important to strategize your response, remember to stay true to yourself. Authenticity will make your answer more convincing and show the interviewer you're genuinely passionate about your work.

So, the next time you're faced with the "What motivates you to do a good job?" interview question, take a deep breath and let your true motivations shine through. After all, your passion and drive are a big part of what makes you the unique professional you are!

Best of luck in your next job interview!

---

Title: motivational job interview question

Category: Interview

Author: Becky is a contributor for theJub. She’s a writing and talent acquisition specialist who loves to apply her skills through creative writing and editing.