how to answer this interview question : What keeps you going, even in difficult circumstances
How to answer this interview question: What keeps you going, even in difficult circumstances?
Answer:
When preparing to answer the interview question “What keeps you going, even in difficult circumstances?”, it’s important to craft a response that showcases your resilience, determination, and problem-solving abilities. Here are some steps and tips to guide you:
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Reflect on Personal Motivations:
- Consider personal experiences or values that drive you. These could be a dedication to your career, passion for your field, or personal growth aspirations.
- Example: “I have a strong passion for learning and personal development. Whenever I face challenging situations, I remind myself that overcoming these obstacles is a part of my growth journey.”
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Highlight Specific Instances:
- Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you’ve handled difficult situations.
- Example: “During my previous role, we faced a significant project delay due to unforeseen technical issues. Instead of getting discouraged, I took the initiative to lead a brainstorming session with my team to find a viable solution. Seeing my team’s collaboration and innovation kept me motivated.”
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Emphasize Personal Traits:
- Identify and highlight personal attributes such as perseverance, optimism, or adaptability that help you thrive under pressure.
- Example: “I believe my perseverance and optimistic outlook are key to my resilience. When faced with challenges, I stay focused on the end goal and maintain a positive attitude, which helps me navigate through difficulties.”
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Discuss External Support Systems:
- Mention any external sources of motivation such as mentors, family, or friends who provide encouragement and support.
- Example: “Having a strong support system, including mentors and family, plays a vital role in my ability to push through hard times. Their encouragement and advice provide me with the strength to persevere.”
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Align with Company Values:
- Relate your motivation to the company’s mission or values to show alignment with their culture.
- Example: “I am deeply driven by the impact of my work. Knowing that my contributions align with the company’s mission to innovate and improve people’s lives keeps me inspired, even during tough times.”
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Stay Honest and Authentic:
- Ensure your response is genuine and reflective of your real motivations. Authenticity resonates well with interviewers.
- Example: “In difficult circumstances, my commitment to making a meaningful difference keeps me going. I firmly believe that each challenge is an opportunity to make a positive impact, and this mindset fuels my determination.”
Final Answer:
"Throughout my career, I’ve encountered numerous challenging situations, but what keeps me going is my unwavering dedication to professional growth and making a significant impact. For example, in my previous role, we faced a substantial project setback due to technical difficulties. Taking this as an opportunity, I led a collaborative effort to find innovative solutions. My perseverance, the support of my team, and the overarching belief that every challenge is an opportunity for growth drive me forward. Additionally, aligning my work with the company’s mission to innovate and improve lives provides me with a sense of purpose, ensuring I stay motivated even in difficult times.”
By following these steps and ensuring your response is detailed and reflective of your true motivations, you can provide a compelling and authentic answer that effectively communicates your resilience and ability to thrive in challenging circumstances.