Where do you get your inspiration from?
An interviewer may ask this question to find out more about your motivations for the job. They also use this question to learn more about how you connect with other people and projects in the profession.
"My early inspiration came from working with my mentor, a senior urban planner who was constantly pushing the envelope and going above and beyond. I'm also inspired by visiting a great project and seeing people using the spaces as they were envisioned. I'm also inspired by other designers and subscribe to a few architecture and planning magazines to learn more about what other planners are working on."
Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, an author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why. Your well-thought-out answer to this question can show the hiring manager that you have goals and motivations and that you look to leaders (or projects) in the industry as examples of what you can do to succeed.
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
From nature, international visits, other cities that have prospered. Many different places.
Rachelle's Feedback
Great! Try adding in your favorite places to visit or specifics when it comes to landmarks, etc.
Anonymous Answer
From visiting places, both urban and rural. I love learning the ins and outs of every place I visit. When I moved to San Diego I would spend hours upon hours just walking through different neighborhoods and hiking trails and just admiring nature and the wonderful architecture. I especially liked interacting with random people along the way.
Stephanie's Feedback
Excellent response--this really connects with your career path and paints an image of who you are as an individual, as well!
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