How to Answer “What Do You Look for in a Job” in an Interview (with Sample Answers)

Employers ask this question to learn more about your values, motivations, and goals. Your answer can help them determine whether you would be a good fit for the company, the role, and the team. It can also give them insight into your career aspirations and priorities, which can be useful for both you and them in the long run.

How to answer the question

When answering this question, it's important to be honest and specific. Start by explaining what you value in a job, such as growth opportunities, a positive work environment, or a sense of purpose. Then, provide specific examples of how those values align with the company, the role, and the team. For example, you could say:

"I value growth opportunities, so I'm excited about the chance to learn and develop new skills in this role."
"I value a positive work environment, so I'm looking for a team that is collaborative, supportive, and inclusive."
"I value a sense of purpose, so I'm looking for a job that allows me to make a meaningful contribution and have a positive impact."

To prepare for this question, it's important to reflect on your values, motivations, and goals. What do you value in a job, and why? What motivates you, and what do you want to achieve in your career? Take some time to think about these questions and write down your answers. Then, use your answers to craft a compelling and authentic response to the question. You can also research the company, the role, and the team to learn more about their values and culture, and how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your answer and show that you're a good fit for the job.

Finally, practice answering the question out loud. Ask a friend or family member to play the role of the interviewer, and have them ask you the question. Then, answer the question using your prepared response. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable when answering the question in a real job interview.

Common Mistakes

1. Not being specific or authentic

One common mistake is to give a generic or vague answer that could apply to any job or company. For example, saying that you value "a good salary" or "a stable job" is not specific or authentic enough. It doesn't show that you've done your research or that you understand what the company values. Instead, be specific and authentic, and focus on the aspects that matter most to you.

2. Not tailoring your answer to the company, the role, and the team

Another common mistake is to give an answer that is not tailored to the company, the role, and the team. For example, saying that you value "flexibility" or "innovation" is not enough. You need to show how those values align with the company, the role, and the team. You can do this by mentioning specific examples or experiences that demonstrate your fit. For example, you could say:

"I value flexibility, and I'm impressed by the company's flexible work arrangements and its commitment to work-life balance. I believe this would allow me to thrive and be productive in this role."
"I value innovation, and I'm excited by the company's focus on research and development and its track record of successful product launches. I believe I could contribute to the team's efforts and make a meaningful impact."

Sample Answers

I value growth opportunities, so I'm excited about the chance to learn and develop new skills in this role. I believe that continuous learning and development are key to staying relevant and competitive in today's job market, and I'm committed to investing in my own growth and development.

The company's commitment to professional development and its strong track record of promoting from within are key factors that attracted me to this opportunity. I've done my research, and I've learned that the company offers a wide range of training and development programs, as well as clear career progression paths. I'm also impressed by the fact that many of the company's senior leaders started out in entry-level positions, and I believe that this shows a genuine commitment to investing in people and their potential.

I value a positive work environment, so I'm looking for a team that is collaborative, supportive, and inclusive. I believe that a positive work environment is essential for happiness, productivity, and success, and I'm committed to creating and maintaining such an environment for myself and others.

From what I've heard and experienced during the interview process, this seems like a great fit for me. I've had the opportunity to meet some of the team members, and I've been impressed by their friendliness, professionalism, and enthusiasm. I've also learned about the company's culture, values, and practices, and I believe that they align with my own.

I'm looking forward to being part of a team that values collaboration, feedback, and mutual support. I believe that this will allow me to thrive and be happy in my work, and I'm confident that I can contribute to the team's success and well-being.

I value a sense of purpose, so I'm looking for a job that allows me to make a meaningful contribution and have a positive impact. I believe that a sense of purpose is essential for motivation, fulfillment, and satisfaction, and I'm committed to finding and pursuing a career that aligns with my values, passions, and strengths.

The company's mission and values align with my own, and I believe I can make a valuable contribution to the team's efforts. I've done my research, and I've learned about the company's history, products, and services, and I'm impressed by its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. I've also learned about the team's goals and challenges, and I believe that my skills, experience, and perspective can help them achieve their objectives and overcome their challenges.

I'm looking forward to being part of a team that is driven by a shared purpose and vision, and to making a meaningful contribution to the company's success and impact. I believe that this will allow me to grow, learn, and be fulfilled in my work, and I'm confident that I can be a valuable and valued member of the team.