Interview Tips
How to Answer: What Motivates You?
2025-05-30 • 5 min read
Why Interviewers Ask This Question
Employers want to understand what drives you to perform at your best. Your answer gives them insight into your work ethic, values, and whether you’re a good fit for the role and company culture.
How to Structure Your Answer
Follow these three steps to craft a strong response:
- Identify Your Key Motivators: Consider what truly drives you—problem-solving, creativity, helping others, achieving goals, etc.
- Relate It to the Job: Show how your motivation aligns with the role and company values.
- Provide a Real Example: Use a past experience to illustrate your motivation in action.
Example Answer
"I’m motivated by challenges that allow me to solve problems and make a tangible impact. In my previous role, I enjoyed analyzing customer feedback to improve product features, which led to a 20% increase in user satisfaction. The opportunity to contribute meaningful solutions is what drives me."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Being Too Generic: Avoid vague answers like “I’m motivated by success” without elaboration.
- Focusing Only on Money: While salary is a motivator, interviewers want to hear deeper motivations.
- Ignoring the Job Context: Ensure your motivation aligns with the role you’re applying for.
Practice with AI
Use our AI interview practice tool to refine your response and get instant feedback:
- Receive personalized feedback on clarity and effectiveness
- Get suggestions to strengthen your answer
- Practice multiple variations of this question