Why does this job with IKEA feel right for you at this time in your career?
Your interviewer is curious about what your goals are for looking for a job right now in your life. Are you just looking for any position \that matches your skills, or are you looking for a working environment and culture that feels like the right fit for you because you want to find a job that results in a positive, mutually enduring, and mutually beneficial relationship? If you've identified growth opportunities at IKEA that align with your career goals, share that. Use language from the company's website to communicate your answer.
"I'm just starting in retail, but so far, I love it. I hope to transition to IKEA from my current position because the culture seems great here. My only real complaint about my current job is that the environment can be competitive and combative, and that's not my ideal atmosphere. I think a job in the positive, team-centered environment at IKEA would be more conducive to me learning and developing my sales and communication skills."
"I've worked in IT for the last several years, and I've been feeling pretty burnt out. I think it's time for me to tackle a new challenge, and retail feels like a good fit. I'm excited about a job that keeps me on my feet so that I can feel more active instead of sitting behind a desk all day, and I think it would be great to use my communication and interpersonal skills to benefit a team."
IKEA identified seven emotional needs that a home must meet to make us feel 'at home:' enjoyment, accomplishment, security, belonging, ownership, comfort, and privacy. "At IKEA, we believe that our coworkers' growth is mutually beneficial: when you grow, we grow. We believe in every coworker's ability to develop while working at IKEA, and we want to help you achieve your goals. We believe your work is so much more than a job, just like your home is more than a house. Home is more than a place - it's a feeling."
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've been working freelance and in a small office recently and I miss working with the general public. I'd like a change where I can work in an environment where I can work with people, be creative, solve problems, and have a lot of job satisfaction.
Rachelle's Feedback
Try incorporating a bit about the IKEA culture and specific growth opportunity so the response is a balance of you and them.
"I've been working in a small office recently, and miss the opportunities that come with working among larger groups of people. This role with IKEA would offer me the chance to work in a busier environment where I can learn and grow from my team leaders. IKEA offers excellent employee growth opportunities, and I look forward to working my way into a position such as (list the role one or two ranks above the job you are interviewing for)."
Anonymous Answer
I have learned so much in my years in retail that I want to be part of something big such as IKEA's values.
Marcie's Feedback
Include more information in this answer to better emphasize all the skills, qualities, and experience you have that make you the perfect fit for this role. See below for an example of another way you could respond here:
For the past several years, I have worked in retail positions that have prepared me to excel within this role. Because of this experience, I am skilled in communicating effectively with customers, problem-solving, and resolving conflicts. I think quickly on my feet and am a friendly and empathetic person. I'm ready to move into a new position that gives me additional responsibility. I believe that IKEA will be a great company to work for because of its company culture and ideals, which align with my own personal values. I am confident that I will succeed in this position and look forward to having the opportunity to do so!
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