Understanding the Question
This interview question isn't just about money. Recruiters want to understand:
* Your values: What motivates you? What drives your career choices?
* Your ambitions: What are your long-term goals?
* Your fit: How do your expectations align with the company culture and opportunities?
Crafting Your Answer
1. Focus on Intrinsic Rewards: These are the intangible benefits that come from the work itself.
* Learning and Growth: "I'm driven by the chance to continuously learn and grow in my field. I expect to develop new skills and knowledge through challenging projects and mentorship."
* Impact and Contribution: "I want to feel like my work makes a difference. I'm looking for a role where I can contribute to the success of the team and the company."
* Meaningful Work: "I'm passionate about [mention relevant area of work] and I hope to find a job that aligns with my values and allows me to make a positive impact."
2. Address Extrinsic Rewards: While not your primary focus, mention these briefly.
* Competitive Compensation: "Naturally, I expect to be compensated fairly for my skills and contributions."
* Benefits: "A good benefits package is important for my overall well-being and financial security."
* Career Advancement: "I'm ambitious and seek opportunities for growth within the company. A clear path for promotion and development would be very valuable to me."
3. Relate to the Company: Connect your expectations to the company's values and goals.
* "I've been impressed by [company's mission or values] and I believe that my passion for [relevant area] would be a good fit for your team."
* "I see a lot of potential for growth and innovation at [company name], which is something I'm really excited about."
Example Answer
"The most important rewards I seek in my career are opportunities for learning and growth. I want to be challenged and learn new skills, and I believe a company like yours, with its focus on [relevant company initiative], will provide that. I also value the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful. I'm drawn to [company's mission or impact] and I want to be part of a team that makes a real difference. Of course, fair compensation and benefits are important, but my primary motivators are the chance to learn, grow, and make a positive impact."
Key Tips
* Be genuine: Speak from the heart about what truly matters to you.
* Be specific: Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.
* Be positive: Highlight your enthusiasm and your eagerness to contribute.
* Be prepared: Think about your career goals and how they align with the company's offerings.
By crafting a thoughtful response, you'll demonstrate your values, aspirations, and your fit for the company.