For neurodivergent job-seekers, interviews can be challenging, especially when faced with open-ended questions that require introspection and articulation. One such question is “What does success look like to you?” Employers ask this question to understand your motivation, values, and match with their organisation. In this blog, we will explore why employers ask this question, outline concise and action-oriented steps to prepare for it, and provide an example of a strong answer that you as a neurodivergent job-seeker can use.
Why do employers ask this question?
Employers ask this question to understand what success means to you and how well it matches their company. They want to see if you have a clear idea of what success looks like for you and if it aligns with their goals. It helps them assess your compatibility, long-term potential, goal-setting abilities, and willingness to contribute.
How to prepare for the question:
Step 1: Think about your values and goals.
Take some time to reflect on what’s important to you in your career. Consider the things that make you feel satisfied, fulfilled, and accomplished. Reflect on your personal and professional values and think about what success means to you. Is it about making a positive impact, continuous growth, reaching specific goals, or something else? This self-reflection will give you a clear understanding of your own definition of success.
Step 2: Research the company.
Learn as much as you can about the company’s mission, values, and goals. Look for attributes and objectives that resonate with your definition of success. Find ways to show how your skills, interests, and goals align with what the company wants to achieve. Think about how your contribution can help the company succeed. This will demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and that you’re genuinely interested in the company.
Step 3: Give a clear and honest answer.
When answering the question, be concise and genuine. Use clear language to convey your thoughts. Focus on specific goals, accomplishments, or values that are relevant to the position and company. Avoid complicated words or jargon and explain your ideas in a straightforward way. This will help the interviewer understand your perspective easily.
Step 4: Talk about measurable outcomes.
If you’re neurodivergent, it can be helpful to focus on tangible goals you can achieve. When discussing success, highlight measurable outcomes and milestones. For example, you can talk about meeting a sales target, finishing a project on time, or creating a successful marketing campaign. This approach brings clarity to your answer and allows you to communicate your goals effectively.
Step 5: Practice with someone you trust.
To boost your confidence and refine your answer, practice with a friend, family member, or mentor. Ask them to help you practice articulating your response. Imagine yourself in an interview and role-play the scenario. This practice will make you more comfortable and help you make any necessary improvements. Seek feedback to ensure your answer is clear, understandable, and effectively conveys your thoughts and goals.
Example Answer:
“For me, success means continuously growing and making a positive impact in my work. In a professional setting, it’s about setting clear goals, meeting deadlines, and delivering high-quality work. I value teamwork and effective communication because I believe success comes from working well together. It’s also about always learning, adapting to challenges, and seeking opportunities to grow.
I’m excited about XYZ company because they prioritise innovation, creativity, and provide an environment that fosters growth and learning. Their commitment to pushing boundaries aligns perfectly with my desire to keep learning and growing. I believe that by working with a team that shares these values, I can contribute to innovative projects, develop my skills, and make a positive impact. That’s what success means to me in my career.”
Found this helpful?
Read our How to Answer the ‘What Do You Hope to Achieve in 30/60/90 Days?’ Job Interview guide here
