Besides pay, what do you value most when considering a job offer?
This question is aimed at revealing what motivates you in your work. When making an informed hiring decision, your interviewer will prioritize those candidates who aren't just in it for the money. They are more interested in bringing on candidates who are focused on their career growth and development, and who are interested in pursuing a long-term professional relationship with their employer. Those who have attainable career goals, and are overachievers, have a higher likelihood of job satisfaction and are less likely to burn out on the job. How you answer this question could help them categorize what type of employee you would be. Whatever your answer, outline your career goals, when you hope to accomplish them by, and how this opportunity at BNSF can help achieve them.
"A fair wage and health benefits do matter, especially concerning ensuring a quality of life which will help aid one's work-life balance. But aside from that, I highly value the opportunity for development and career growth. I am missing out on future opportunities in my current job because they rarely promote from within the organization. This reason is why I am eager to learn more about BNSF leadership programs beyond what I read online."
On their website, BNSF details that "regardless of position, every employee is fully appreciated and duly compensated, with average pay around 60,000 per year." They also offer a full benefits overview, which can differ for hourly and salaried employees, union and non-union. But for both groups, their benefits options include "health and wellness, including medical, dental and vision insurance. Retirement including 401(k) and Railroad Retirement Board annuity. They offer personal development, including advancement opportunities and tuition reimbursement."
Since this question concerns your career objectives, intending to assess whether you have motivators outside of a paycheck, avoid using this as an opportunity to discuss salary. Rather, examine your career goals, and the growth and development opportunities offered by BNSF, and see how the two align. Then, contrasting the two, suggest realistic timeframes by which you believe you could accomplish your goals. With this approach, you'll effectively communicate what you hope to accomplish, and how they can keep you motivated when answering this question.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
"I value the opportunity for promotion and career growth. I am missing out on future opportunities in my current job because they rarely promote from within the organization. This reason is why I am eager to know how BNSF Railway Company helps build up its employees for promotion and growth."
Marcie's Feedback
Excellent! The potential for career growth should definitely be considered when making a decision about a job offer. The interviewer will likely be happy to explain to you what the company offers in terms of job growth. Consider talking about the direction you're hoping your career takes and how you're looking to advance professionally in the future. This will remind the interviewer about your ambition and eagerness to learn and grow. Great job!
Anonymous Answer
After reviewing the BNSF site. I saw the importance of women in the railroad industry. 25% and growing. Work-life balance also is a critical balance and the site points out the work-life balance even the maven program for moms on the move.
Marcie's Feedback
It's great that you have researched the company. The interviewer will appreciate this. So the most critical factor for you when evaluating a job offer outside of pay is diversity/inclusion and work-life balance? Why are these two topics important to you? Be sure to explain why these issues matter to you and will play into your decision-making process. Good job!
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