What Motivates You Nursing Interview Question

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What motivates you nursing interview question

When you decided to become a nurse, there were factors that played into the thought process that pushed you towards this particular career.

These factors are what motivated you to go to nursing school, take your first job, and now apply for a nursing position you really want.

Many employers like to ask what motivates you nursing interview questions when looking to hire new staff.

The best way to answer this question is by digging down deep to identify the factors that had you choose this career path in the first place.

It is crucial to prepare yourself for any interview by coming up with amazing answers to these types of questions before you ever walk into the room.

Think about your motivations for not just being a nurse, but:

  • being a fabulous nurse,
  • why do you like the job,
  • why do you want to move up in the field,
  • and why you want the position you are currently applying for.

What Motivates You Nursing Interview Question Answers

This is a great time to sit down and really think about what motivates you the most.

These questions will help you formulate a fantastic answer to the question “What motivates you?”

Below is a list of five answers to this particular question to help you get an idea of what employers are looking for when they ask it.

Example answer – Goals

My motivation has been and still is the goals I have set for myself and my future.

I started my journey in the health care field when I was in high school doing volunteer work for my local hospital.

Once I saw how big of a difference I made by simply reading books to children or cleaning up someone’s space, I realized I could do even more by becoming a nurse.

I have always enjoyed working with children and took extra pediatric courses in college so I could one day work in pediatric care.

See also: Pediatric Nurse Interview Questions

While working for a general practitioner’s office for the last six years has been incredible, I am ready to keep moving forward towards the ultimate goal of working directly with sick children.

Which is what lead me to this interview.

Example answer – Values

I am compassionate and empathetic, and I can relate to and communicate with others very well.

I am a hard worker and love a good challenge, especially when the end result could change the life of another in a positive way.

As a nurse, I strongly believe I am more than just a caregiver to others.

I am a confidant, a teacher, a positive attitude, and an advocate for those who need all of those things the most.

I believe the best way to get patients to cooperate and to make any situation go smoothly is through communication and trust.

I will work hard for patients and their families in order to ensure they feel safe, comfortable, heard, and in good hands.

Example answer – The challenge

I have always loved a good challenge in life, from working hard in school, training for sports, and being at the top of my class in college.

I like to push myself in everything I do to better myself and the lives of others.

I chose to be a nurse because I knew it was hard work, but the work was worth the effort, and I could make big changes.

I would love the opportunity to use my skills, education, and strong work ethic to help your team and the patients you see every day.

See also: Tell Me About Yourself Nursing Interview

Example answer – The job

The job itself is what motivates me every day.

I am lucky enough to have found a career where I love coming to work.

I enjoy working with a strong and hard-working team, helping people, and learning new things as I go along.

I really do love my work as a nurse, and I want to find a great position where I can continue to grow, thrive, and be part of an amazing group of professionals who care about their work as much as I do.

Example answer – The experiences

I am motivated by the daily changes and experiences I face while working with others.

I have had the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life with different backgrounds, personalities, and stories in the nursing field.

I have learned so much over the years just through my interactions with physicians, co-workers, and patients.

During the past ten years, working as a nurse in a hospital setting has allowed me to grow as a medical professional and as a person.

See also: ICU Nurse Interview Questions

I love learning as the field advances, and I think it is an exciting job where I can better myself and the lives of so many others.

How to Answer What Motivates You Nursing Interview Question?

When you are preparing yourself for an interview, it is a good idea to have already the answers formulated in your head, ready to flow freely once the question is asked.

This will show you are a confident, capable, and qualified professional perfect for the position. 

A few things to add to your “What motivates you?” answer include:

  • Why do you like being a nurse?
  • What are your most vital skills in the health care field
  • What makes you stand out amongst the rest?
  • What drives you?
  • What are your future career goals?
  • Is this the right position for you?

See also: Short-Term Goals for Nursing Interview

Conclusion: Nursing Interview Questions What Motivates You

When asked, “What motivates you?” in a nursing interview, the best way to answer is with honesty.

There is no right answer. It’s the reason for the answer that is going to make or break the interview.

Include the reason for the motivation and how it can help you succeed in the position you are interviewing for.

Good luck with your upcoming nursing interview!

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