If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example
Community Answers

As you likely know heading into your interview, Google is one of the most innovative companies in the world when it comes to appreciating and taking care of their employees. Google is all about getting to know their employees and learning what drives them in their work. During an interview, a hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. As you prepare to answer a question like this, there is no right or wrong answer and many directions that you can take your answer. You can shed some insight into your personality and personal life by talking about a dream job that you've always had. You can also steer your answer towards Google and tech in general to show your true passion for the industry.

"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career. But if I had to start over in a new direction completely, I would likely pursue my degree in education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers, and they both had very fulfilling and personally rewarding careers in giving back to future generations. I enjoy coaching and leading others so, any tasks in my current career that are related to these skills are very welcome."

"In all honesty, my dream career would be to be a drummer in the world's most famous rock band! I do play some percussion in my personal time and play with a new cover band in the bay area. As for right now, my career is focused here at Google and drumming is a fun time for me outside of work."

Anonymous Answer

"It is interesting that you ask that. I am quite happy with the route I have taken to get here. I went to college to study music, and the creativity I built from that experience has guided my career very well. However, I would say that after many years of learning on the job, I felt one of the harder things to learn was the business and financial aspects of the company. If I could start over, I would take a minor in business administration to ease that learning curve. I always advise people going to school to do this as well."