How to Answer "Why Do You Want This Job?"

The motivation question that requires you to pretend money doesn't matter—and how to answer it authentically

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You're in the middle of the interview. Things are going okay. Then they lean forward and ask:

"So, why do you want this job?"

And your brain immediately screams: "Because I need to pay rent! Because I've been unemployed for three months! Because my current job is soul-crushing! Because you're hiring and I'm desperate!"

But you can't say any of that. So instead, you scramble to remember what you read about the company on their "About Us" page five minutes before the interview, and you hear yourself saying something like:

"Well, I've always been passionate about... [squints at desk nameplate] ...enterprise software solutions for the healthcare vertical, and your mission to... [desperately tries to remember] ...innovate the paradigm really resonates with me..."

And you watch the light die in the interviewer's eyes as they realize you're bullshitting.

Welcome to one of the most awkward interview moments in existence. This question forces you to pretend that money, benefits, and basic survival needs aren't factors in your job search—even though everyone knows they absolutely are.

Here's the truth: Of course you want this job partly because you need income. The interviewer needs income too. Everyone needs income. That's how capitalism works.

But here's what you need to understand: They're not asking why you need A job. They're asking why you want THIS job specifically.

This article will show you how to answer this question authentically—without lying about being "passionate" about things you learned about 10 minutes ago, and without sounding desperate or calculating.

What They're Really Asking (And Why This Question Feels Impossible)

Let's decode what's actually happening here.

The Surface Question vs. The Real Question

What they asked: "Why do you want this job?"

What you hear: "Convince me you're not just here for the money."

What they actually mean: "Give me evidence that you've thought about this, you understand what we do, and there's genuine fit here."

What They're Actually Assessing

1. Did You Do Any Research?

The #1 way people fail this question is by giving generic answers that could apply to any company.

They want to see that you:

• Know what the company actually does
• Understand their products/services/mission
• Read their website beyond the careers page
• Have some context about their industry/position

2. Is This a Strategic Career Move or Desperation?

There's a difference between:

• "This role aligns with my career goals" (strategic)
• "I'll take literally anything" (desperate)

They're trying to distinguish between candidates who want THIS job versus candidates who need ANY job.

3. Will You Actually Be Motivated?

People who are genuinely interested in the work tend to:

• Perform better
• Stay longer
• Be more engaged
• Require less management

They're trying to predict your engagement level.

4. Do Your Values Align With Ours?

Not in a fake corporate-speak way, but genuinely:

• Do you care about what we care about?
• Will you fit our culture?
• Are you energized by the type of work we do?

5. Are You Running Away or Running Toward?

Are you:

• Excited about this opportunity? (running toward)
• Just trying to escape your current situation? (running away)

Running toward = better long-term fit.

Why This Question Feels So Hard

The paradox:

• Honest answer: "I need income and your job provides that"
• Expected answer: "I'm deeply passionate about your mission"
• Actual good answer: Something in between

You're trying to find authenticity in a question that seems to demand performance.

The Mistakes That Sink Your Answer

Mistake #1: The Generic Corporate Love Letter

❌ Bad:

"I'm really excited about your company culture and your commitment to innovation and excellence. I'm passionate about making a difference and being part of a dynamic team that's disrupting the industry."

Why it fails:

• Could be copied and pasted into any application
• Buzzword soup with zero specificity
• Doesn't demonstrate any actual knowledge
• Obviously rehearsed and insincere

Mistake #2: The "I Need Money" Honesty

❌ Bad:

"Honestly, I've been job searching for three months and I need to pay my bills. Your salary range is competitive and the benefits are good."

Why it fails:

• While honest, it doesn't differentiate you
• Sounds purely transactional
• Suggests you'd leave for slightly more money
• Doesn't show interest in the actual work

Mistake #3: The Desperate Overshare

❌ Bad:

"My current job is terrible—my boss is toxic, the company is dysfunctional, and I need to get out before I lose my mind. This job seems way better than what I have now."

Why it fails:

• Too much negativity about current role
• Red flags about how you'll talk about us later
• Focuses on what you're escaping, not what you're pursuing
• Unprofessional

Mistake #4: The Fake Passion

❌ Bad:

"I've always been passionate about supply chain logistics. Ever since I was a kid, I've dreamed about optimizing distribution networks..."

Why it fails:

• Nobody believes this
• Clearly rehearsed
• Trying too hard
• Comes across as dishonest

Mistake #5: The "Stepping Stone" Confession

❌ Bad:

"This seems like a good opportunity to build my resume before I move into [more prestigious role/company/industry]."

Why it fails:

• You've told them you're using them
• They want to invest in someone who'll stick around
• Makes you seem opportunistic
• Why would they hire you if you're already planning to leave?

Mistake #6: The Complete Non-Answer

❌ Bad:

"I just think it would be a good fit."

[silence]

Why it fails:

• Lazy, no effort
• Shows zero research or thought
• Missed opportunity to stand out
• Makes you forgettable

The Framework That Actually Works

Here's the structure that balances authenticity with strategy:

The Formula:

Part 1: Specific Company/Role Hook (20-30 seconds) Start with something specific about THIS company or THIS role

Part 2: Connect to Your Goals/Skills (20-30 seconds) Explain how this aligns with what you're looking for or what you're good at

Part 3: Show You've Done Research (10-15 seconds) Reference something specific you learned about them

Part 4: Close With Genuine Interest (5-10 seconds) End with authentic enthusiasm

Total time: 60-90 seconds

The Template:

"A few things drew me to this role. First, [specific aspect of the role or company that genuinely interests you]. That's important to me because [why it matters to you personally or professionally].

>

Second, [another specific aspect] aligns really well with [your skills/experience/goals]. For example, [brief relevant example from your background].

>

I was also really interested to see that [something specific from your research—recent news, product, initiative, company value].

>

Overall, this feels like a role where I could [specific contribution] while also [what you'd gain/learn]."

Complete Examples for Different Scenarios

Example 1: You Genuinely Like the Company/Product

The Setup: You actually use their product or admire what they do

"Honestly, I'm a user of your product. I've been using [product] for about two years, and I've always been impressed by [specific feature or aspect]. When I saw you were hiring for this role, it felt like a natural fit.

>

Beyond that, this role combines two things I'm really good at: [skill 1] and [skill 2]. In my last position, I [brief example of relevant achievement], and I could see myself doing similar work here but with a product I actually believe in.

>

I was also reading about your [recent initiative, product launch, or expansion], and it sounds like you're at an exciting inflection point. Being part of [specific thing they're doing] is exactly the kind of challenge I'm looking for."

Why this works:

• Opens with genuine connection (actual user)
• Connects to skills and experience
• Shows research (recent initiative)
• Specific throughout
• Authentic enthusiasm

Example 2: The Role Matches Your Career Goals

The Setup: This is a logical next step in your career path

"This role is exactly what I've been looking for in my next position. Specifically, I want to move from [current focus] to [new focus], and this role offers that opportunity.

>

At my current company, I've been [current work], but I've realized I'm most energized by [aspect of new role]. For example, [specific example of when you did this type of work and enjoyed it]. I'm looking for a place where I can do more of that, which is why this role caught my attention.

>

I'm also drawn to [specific aspect of company—size, industry, stage, culture]. Coming from [your background], I think I could contribute [specific value] while developing [skills you want to build]."

Why this works:

• Clear about career progression
• Explains the transition thoughtfully
• Connects background to new role
• Specific about company appeal
• Mutual benefit (you contribute + you grow)

Example 3: You're Changing Industries/Careers

The Setup: You're pivoting to something new

"I'm at a transition point in my career, and this role represents exactly the direction I want to move in. I've spent [X years] in [old industry/role], but I've realized that [genuine reason for change].

>

What drew me to this specific role is [aspect that connects your old and new career]. Even though I'm coming from a different background, I bring [transferable skills]. For instance, [specific example of how old experience applies].

>

I've been following [company] for [timeframe] because I'm really interested in [what they do]. The fact that you're [specific thing you learned about them] made me even more excited to apply. I'm looking for a company that will give someone with my background a chance, and it seems like you value [relevant value like diverse perspectives, transferable skills, etc.]."

Why this works:

• Addresses career change directly
• Explains motivation clearly
• Draws connections between old and new
• Shows research and genuine interest
• Acknowledges they're taking a chance on you

Example 4: You Need Better Work-Life Balance

The Setup: Your real motivation is escaping burnout, but you can't say that directly

"I'm at a point where I'm looking for a role that offers [what this role offers—better hours, remote work, more autonomy, etc.]. In my current position, I've been [aspect you want to change—traveling constantly, working 80-hour weeks, etc.], and while I learned a lot, I realize that's not sustainable for me long-term.

>

This role appealed to me because it seems to offer [the work-life aspect you need] while still being challenging and engaging. I saw that [specific aspect of the role or company], which tells me this is a place that [values you're looking for—values sustainability, trusts employees, focuses on outcomes not hours, etc.].

>

Beyond the work structure, I'm genuinely interested in [specific aspect of the work itself]. I have experience in [relevant area], and I'm excited about the opportunity to [specific contribution you'd make]."

Why this works:

• Honest about work-life needs without complaining
• Frames it as long-term sustainability, not laziness
• Still connects to the actual work
• Shows research about company culture
• Balances personal needs with professional interest

Example 5: You're Entry-Level and Just Need to Start Somewhere

The Setup: You're early career and this is a good first step

"As someone early in my career, I'm looking for a role where I can learn from experienced people and develop my skills in [field]. This role seems like an ideal place to do that.

>

What specifically attracted me was [aspect of the role or company]. I don't have years of experience yet, but I do have [relevant coursework, internship, project], which I think gives me a foundation to contribute while I'm learning.

>

I'm also drawn to [something about the company—size, industry, mission, products]. From what I've read about [specific thing], it seems like a place where [reason it appeals—people grow their careers, there's mentorship, you work on meaningful projects, etc.]. That's exactly what I'm looking for at this stage."

Why this works:

• Honest about being early career
• Emphasizes learning and growth
• Still shows some relevant preparation
• Demonstrates research
• Frames inexperience positively (room to grow here)

Example 6: The Compensation Is Genuinely Better

The Setup: The money is a factor but you can't lead with that

"A few things attracted me to this opportunity. First, the role itself—[specific aspects of the work that interest you]. I've done similar work at my current company and I really enjoy [specific aspect], so the chance to do more of that is appealing.

>

I'm also at a point where I'm looking for [what the new role offers—more responsibility, bigger team, different industry, new challenges]. In my current role, I've [accomplishment that shows you've outgrown current role], and I'm ready for the next level.

>

And honestly, the compensation range you mentioned aligns with what I'm targeting at this stage of my career. I want to make sure I'm being compensated fairly for the value I bring, and this seems like a company that recognizes and rewards good work."

Why this works:

• Leads with the work, not the money
• Shows career progression reasoning
• Mentions compensation honestly but not desperately
• Frames it as "fair compensation" not "I need money"
• Doesn't apologize for caring about money

Example 7: You're Returning to the Workforce

The Setup: You took time off and are coming back

"I took [time period] off to [reason—raise kids, care for family, address health, travel, etc.], and I'm now ready to get back into the workforce. I'm specifically looking for a role where I can [what you want in your return].

>

This position appealed to me because [specific aspects]. Given my background in [your experience before the break], I think I could contribute [specific value] while rebuilding my career momentum.

>

I'm also drawn to [something about the company culture, flexibility, mission, etc.]. At this stage, I'm looking for a company that [values you need—values experience, offers flexibility, focuses on results, etc.], and from what I've learned about [company], that seems to be the case here."

Why this works:

• Addresses the gap directly but briefly
• Focuses forward on what you'll contribute
• Connects past experience to current role
• Identifies what you need (without sounding demanding)
• Shows research and thoughtfulness

Advanced Tactics: Standing Out

Tactic #1: Reference Something Specific They Do

Don't just say "I love your products." Say:

"I was particularly impressed by [specific product feature, recent initiative, approach to X]. That tells me [what it signals about the company]."

Why it works: Shows you did actual research, not just surface reading.

Tactic #2: Connect to Your Personal Story

"I got into [field] because [personal reason], and what you're doing with [specific thing] connects to that original motivation..."

Why it works: Adds depth and memorability, shows authentic connection.

Tactic #3: Acknowledge What You Don't Know

"From the outside, it seems like [what you think], but I'm curious to learn more about [specific aspect]. That said, based on what I do know, [why you're interested]..."

Why it works: Shows intellectual humility and genuine curiosity.

Tactic #4: Compare to Your Current Situation (Positively)

"At my current company, we [current approach]. I'm interested in this role because you seem to [different approach], and I think that's [why you prefer their approach]..."

Why it works: Shows strategic thinking and specific reasons for the switch.

Tactic #5: Flip It Into Questions

"That's what drew me here initially. Can I ask—what do you think makes people successful and happy in this role?"

Why it works: Shows you're evaluating fit, not just selling yourself.

How to Research BEFORE the Interview

You can't give a good answer without doing homework. Here's what to research:

Minimum Research (Required):

15 minutes before interview:

1. Read their "About Us" page
2. Understand what product/service they actually sell
3. Look up recent news (past 6 months)
4. Read the job description thoroughly

Better Research (Recommended):

30-60 minutes before interview:

1. Everything above, plus:
2. Read their blog if they have one (pick 1-2 recent posts)
3. Check their LinkedIn for recent updates
4. Look at Glassdoor reviews (culture insights)
5. Find their competitors (understand the space)
6. Check interviewer's LinkedIn profile

Best Research (If You Really Want the Job):

A few days before interview:

1. Everything above, plus:
2. Use their product if possible
3. Read their quarterly reports if public
4. Watch any company videos or talks by founders/execs
5. Reach out to someone who works there for informational interview
6. Deep dive into their industry

The goal: Find 2-3 specific things you can reference authentically.

What If You Don't Really Want the Job?

Let's be real: Sometimes you're interviewing for a job you don't particularly want. You need the income, you're exploring options, you're keeping your skills sharp.

Here's how to handle it:

Option 1: Find SOMETHING Genuine You Like

Even if the job isn't perfect, find aspects that are actually appealing:

• Learning opportunities
• Stepping stone to something else
• Better than current situation in specific ways
• Interesting people
• Solid company reputation

Focus your answer on those genuine aspects.

Option 2: Be Honest About "Right Now"

"At this stage in my career, I'm looking for [what this offers—stability, specific experience, remote work, whatever]. This role provides that while also [additional positive aspect]. It may not be my dream job forever, but it seems like a solid opportunity where I could contribute and grow."

Why this works: Honest but still professional. Doesn't overpromise.

Option 3: Focus on Practical Fit

"I'm being strategic about my job search. I'm looking for roles that offer [practical things—good compensation, specific experience, reputable company, etc.]. This role checks those boxes, and I think I could do good work here while meeting my own goals."

Why this works: Professional and direct. Acknowledges the transaction is mutual.

What NOT to Do:

❌ Don't fake passion you don't feel (they can tell) ❌ Don't badmouth your current role excessively ❌ Don't admit you're desperate ❌ Don't say "I'll take anything" ❌ Don't make promises you won't keep

The Follow-Up Questions to Expect

After you answer, they might probe deeper:

"What do you know about our company?"

How to answer:

"I know you [what they do], you've been around for [timeframe], and you recently [recent news or initiative]. From what I've read, [your understanding of their position/mission/approach]. Is that accurate, or is there more context I should know?"

"Why this role specifically vs. others you might be considering?"

How to answer:

"I'm being selective in my search. I'm specifically looking for [criteria], and this role meets those criteria. Other opportunities I'm looking at are similar in [ways], but this one stood out because [specific differentiator]."

"What concerns do you have about this role?"

How to answer:

"I wouldn't say concerns, but I do want to make sure [legitimate question about role, culture, expectations]. Assuming that's a good fit, I'm genuinely excited about this opportunity."

"If you had multiple offers, why would you choose us?"

How to answer:

"Obviously I'd need to compare the complete packages, but what would make me choose this role is [specific aspects you've mentioned—the work itself, the team, the company's direction, the learning opportunity]. Money matters, but it's not the only factor. The work and the environment matter more to me long-term."

The Psychological Game: Faking Passion vs. Finding Authenticity

Here's the core tension:

They want to hear: "I'm passionate about your mission!"

The truth is: You're motivated by multiple factors, some practical, some aspirational

The solution: Find the REAL reasons this job appeals to you (even if they're not earth-shaking) and articulate those authentically.

It's Okay to Be Motivated By:

✅ Better work-life balance ✅ Career progression ✅ Learning opportunities ✅ Compensation ✅ Stability ✅ Location ✅ Remote work ✅ Reputation of company ✅ Quality of team ✅ Escaping a bad situation (if framed right)

The Key: Frame Practical Motivations Positively

Instead of: "I hate my current job" Say: "I'm looking for an environment that [what this job offers that current doesn't]"

Instead of: "I need money" Say: "I'm at a stage where fair compensation matters, and this seems like a company that values and rewards good work"

Instead of: "I'm desperate" Say: "I'm being strategic about my next move, and this role aligns with what I'm looking for"

Special Scenarios

Scenario 1: You're Overqualified

The challenge: They might worry you'll leave

How to address it:

"I know I might seem overqualified on paper, but here's why I'm genuinely interested: [real reason—life circumstances, work-life balance, location, industry change, etc.]. I'm not looking for my next big title; I'm looking for [what this actually offers]. This role provides that."

Scenario 2: This Is a Major Step Down

The challenge: They'll wonder why you're taking a pay cut or lower title

How to address it:

"I've realized that [what matters to you] is more important than [title/prestige/money]. In my last role, I had [the impressive thing], but I was missing [what this offers]. At this point in my life/career, this feels like the right move."

Scenario 3: You Have Multiple Offers

The challenge: Don't seem uncommitted

How to address it:

"I'm fortunate to be considering a few opportunities, but what makes this one compelling is [specific reasons]. I'm not just looking for any job; I'm looking for the right fit, and this seems like it could be that."

Scenario 4: You're Being Recruited (Not Applying)

The challenge: They approached you, so why are you interested?

How to address it:

"I wasn't actively job searching, but when you reached out about this role, it caught my attention because [specific reasons]. I'm happy where I am, but I'm always open to the right opportunity, and this seems like it might be one."

Practice Plan

This Week:

Monday:

• Research the company (30-60 minutes)
• Identify 2-3 specific things that genuinely interest you

Tuesday:

• Write out your answer using the framework
• Time it (should be 60-90 seconds)

Wednesday:

• Practice saying it out loud
• Does it sound genuine?

Thursday:

• Practice with someone else
• Ask: "Did that sound authentic or rehearsed?"

Friday:

• Refine based on feedback
• Review your research
• Feel confident

The Bottom Line

Here's what actually matters:

DO: ✅ Show you've researched the company ✅ Be specific about what appeals to you ✅ Connect to your skills/goals/experience ✅ Be authentic about practical motivations (framed positively) ✅ Demonstrate genuine interest in the work ✅ Keep it concise (60-90 seconds)

DON'T: ❌ Give generic answers that could apply anywhere ❌ Fake passion for things you don't care about ❌ Lead with "I need money" or "I'm desperate" ❌ Badmouth your current employer ❌ Say "I'll take anything" ❌ Forget to do basic research

Remember: They're not asking you to prove you've dreamed about this job since childhood. They're asking you to demonstrate that:

• You know what you're applying for
• You've thought about fit
• You have legitimate reasons to be interested
• You're not just desperately firing off applications

Give them that, and you'll be fine.

And if you're struggling to find ANY genuine enthusiasm for the role? Maybe that's a sign you shouldn't take it.

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Still struggling to articulate why you want roles you're applying to? Or worse—realizing you don't actually know what you want? That's the work we do at Boost: helping you get clear on your goals so you can pursue the right opportunities with authentic confidence.