How to answer: “What three things are most important in your next job?” or “What is most important in your next job?” Down below you can find the perfect example answer!
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The reason why interviewers ask this question is to know more about the candidate’s priorities. By learning what someone values and what makes them tick, the interviewer can decide if the candidate fits the company culture and job role. Take a look at the example before you structure your own answer.
Example Answer
For job seekers WITH EXPERIENCE
“The first one that comes to mind is growth potential. As a [Job title] of [Services], I look forward to leveraging my skills and using my 5+ years’ experience to bring an array of new, exciting and worthwhile opportunities to the table. I believe that [Company XYZ] is looking for new opportunities to expand, and such a dynamic working environment is what I’m looking for.
Another important element is a healthy balance between work and personal life. Don’t get me wrong here, I don’t mind working long hours when the workload is heavy, as long as there are flex scheduling and work-from-home options. So, I’d say it’s a combination of both personal and professional characteristics that are most important in my next job.
Example Answer
For job seekers WITH NO EXPERIENCE
“There are several things that I’m looking for in my next job. The first one that comes to mind is the ability to work with coworkers that are eager to teach and learn new things about [Topic]. Don’t get me wrong here, I’m a self-motivated person but I like the challenge and idea of working alongside like-minded professionals.
Secondly, I would like to leverage my coding skills and use it for commercially-driven projects. That’s why I’d like to work for a reputable company that encourages employee development through continuous training opportunities and online resources. At last, I need a dynamic and passion-driven environment where I feel the support to grow professionally and personally.”
TIPS
√ Do match your answer to the interviewer’s expectations of important things. You can explain what you valued in your previous employment and what you expect in your next job.
√ Do come across as a self-oriented candidate. Those who are self-oriented make informed decisions that satisfy their own wants and needs to achieve personal goals. It’s completely fine to provide an answer that proves you take care of yourself.
X Don’t come across as a self-centered candidate. A self-centered person is always looking for what he/she will get out of the situation, and in this case is primarily focussing on salary compensation, bonuses and other rewards.
