What motivates you at work?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
What You Need to Know
Answer Example
Community Answers

The interviewers want to know what motivates you at work, what inspires you to perform at your best, and to go above and beyond. They want to know where your passions lie and the impact you strive to make in your career. How you answer may help them determine how suited you are to the role. As one of their top-performing candidates puts it, at Meta, your career is in your hands. "It's almost like being a kid again because you get to dream big. You may be hired to do a job, but if you discover a new passion, there will always be a way for you to explore it."

Meta's approach to a happy team begins with getting to know each person's greatest motivators. On Meta's careers site, the company states, "We work on things we're incredibly passionate about, that align with our values and purpose, and that have a positive impact on the world. It's who we are. It's why we build. You can bring your values to do work that matters, not just to you, but to the world. You belong here. Here's your blank canvas, now decide what to paint."

"I am motivated by doing the work I love to do, by being given the opportunity to do what I do best and to take that to the next level. I am also motivated by working with teams that share my enthusiasm for the work we are doing together, where we all geek out in the same way. There is something super motivating about that specific collaborative energy."

Anonymous Answer

"I like to create a culture where team members acknowledge the support from one another, giving credit to others' contributions as necessary. I'd also feel happy if the accomplishments are acknowledged in performance reviews and a reward system that the company has put in place."

Stephanie's Feedback

You're able to clearly articulate how to contribute to a team where everyone is supported and recognized, which is fantastic. To strengthen your response, I suggest adding in brief additional details about the "reward system." Do you want a bonus? Flexible working hours? Free office lunch? This question is usually asked so that interviewers can gauge whether your preferences align with the company culture and needs, so do your research.

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Anonymous Answer

"I would like to be recognized publicly and would like to be involved to be more challenging opportunities and grow within the company. Getting recognized publicly helps me build a stronger relationship as it helps my stakeholders know my inputs and challenging projects help me stay motivated and learn and grow."

Marcie's Feedback

Great! You clearly answer the interviewer's question by explaining that you like to be publicly praised and given more challenging growth opportunities within the company in recognition of your accomplishments. Consider going into further detail about why you prefer this type of recognition and how it helps to motivate you.