You're in a job interview and the interviewer asks you about your passion for the field. How do you answer?

3 Connect with the company

The third step is to connect your passion with the company's vision, mission, values, and goals. This shows that you have done your research, that you understand the company's culture and direction, and that you share its aspirations and expectations. Explain how your passion aligns with the company's purpose, how it can add value to its operations, and how it can help it achieve its objectives. Show enthusiasm and curiosity for the company's products, services, markets, and customers. Demonstrate that you're not only passionate about business development, but also about working for the company.

4 Avoid pitfalls

The fourth step is to avoid some common pitfalls that can undermine your answer and your credibility. Don't exaggerate or lie about your passion, as this can backfire if you're asked to elaborate or provide proof. Don't be vague or generic, as this can make you sound boring or uninterested. Don't be arrogant or self-centered, as this can make you seem arrogant or self-centered. Don't be negative or critical, as this can make you seem negative or critical. Instead, be honest, specific, positive, and humble.

5 Practice your answer

The fifth step is to practice your answer before the interview. This will help you refine your message, polish your delivery, and boost your confidence. Write down your main points and examples, and rehearse them aloud. Use a clear, confident, and enthusiastic tone of voice. Avoid filler words, jargon, and rambling. Keep your answer concise, relevant, and focused. Ask for feedback from a friend, a mentor, or a coach, and improve your answer based on their suggestions.

6 Adapt to the situation

The sixth step is to adapt your answer to the situation during the interview. This means being flexible, attentive, and responsive to the interviewer's cues, questions, and reactions. Listen carefully to the question, and tailor your answer to the specific context and role. Use examples that are recent, relevant, and realistic. Emphasize your passion, but also your skills, your fit, and your value. Engage with the interviewer, and show interest in their feedback and comments. Be prepared to answer follow-up questions, and ask your own questions to show your curiosity and enthusiasm.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?