Why Does Interviewer Ask This Question?

Interviewers often ask about who has inspired a person in their life and why as it can provide insight into the candidate’s values, motivations, and character. This question can reveal a lot about a person’s personality, priorities, and what they consider important in life. It can also give the interviewer an idea of how the candidate thinks and makes decisions, as well as their ability to articulate their thoughts and feelings.

Additionally, if a candidate names a well-known or accomplished person as their inspiration, it may indicate that they have similar aspirations and goals. Overall, this question can help the interviewer gain a better understanding of the candidate as a person, and how they may fit into the company’s culture and values.

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5 Tips To Answer This Question

1. Keep It Personal: When answering the question of who has inspired you in your life, it is important to choose someone who has had a significant impact on your own personal development and growth. This could be a family member, friend, teacher, mentor, or even a historical figure.
2. Provide Specific Examples: Instead of simply stating that someone has inspired you, it is important to provide specific examples of how they have influenced your life. This can include specific actions or traits that you admire and have tried to emulate in your own life.
3. Focus On The Positive: When discussing someone who has inspired you, it is important to focus on the positive aspects of their character and actions. Avoid discussing any negative traits or actions that they may have exhibited.
4. Show Gratitude: Expressing gratitude towards the person who has inspired you is important. It shows that you have truly been impacted by their actions and that their influence has had a lasting impact on your life.
5. Keep It Concise: While it is important to provide specific examples and express gratitude, it is also important to keep your answer concise. Avoid repeating yourself or going off on tangents. Stick to the main points and keep your answer focused and to the point.

Things To Avoid While Answering This Question

When answering the question “Who has inspired you in your life and why” in an interview or other setting, there are certain things that you should avoid in order to present yourself in the best light possible. Some of these include:

1. Being Vague Or Non-Specific: Instead of simply stating that someone has inspired you, it is important to provide specific examples of how they have influenced your life. This will help the interviewer or audience understand the impact that this person has had on you and how it relates to the position or topic at hand.
2. Choosing A Controversial Or Polarizing Figure: Avoid choosing a person who may be controversial or polarizing as the person who has inspired you. This can create an uncomfortable or negative impression and may not align with the values of the company or organization you are interviewing with.
3. Bragging Or Exaggerating: Avoid bragging or exaggerating about the person who has inspired you or their accomplishments. This can come across as insincere and may make the interviewer or audience question your credibility.
4. Focusing On Negative Aspects: Avoid discussing negative traits or actions that the person who has inspired you may have exhibited. This can create a negative impression and may not align with the values of the company or organization you are interviewing with.
5. Being Unprepared: Avoid being unprepared or not rehearsing your answer. This can cause you to ramble or not answer the question in a clear and concise manner. It’s better to be prepared and practice your answer, so you can be confident and stay focused during the interview.

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How To Answer “Who Has Inspired You In Your Life And Why” In An Interview?

When answering the question “Who has inspired you in your life and why” in an interview, it is important to approach your answer in a thoughtful and professional manner. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Research The Company And Position: Before the interview, research the company and the position you are applying for. This will give you a better understanding of the company’s values and culture, which will help you tailor your answer to align with those values.
2. Choose A Relevant Example: When answering the question, choose a person who has inspired you and whose example aligns with the company’s values and the requirements of the position. This will demonstrate to the interviewer that you understand the company culture and that you are a good fit for the position.
3. Provide Specific Examples: Instead of simply stating that someone has inspired you, provide specific examples of how they have influenced your life and how their actions align with the company’s values. This will help the interviewer understand how your inspiration has shaped your work ethic and character.
4. Show How They Have Influenced Your Career: Explain how the person who has inspired you has influenced your career choices, and goals, and how they have helped you develop the skills that would be important for the role you are applying for. This will help the interviewer understand your motivation and how you would apply it to the role.
5. Keep It Positive: When discussing the person who has inspired you, focus on the positive aspects of their character and actions. Avoid discussing any negative traits or actions that they may have exhibited.
6. Show Enthusiasm And Passion: Express your admiration and gratitude towards the person who has inspired you. Show enthusiasm and passion for the person and the values they represent. This will demonstrate to the interviewer that you have a strong sense of motivation and drive.

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Example

1. Answer: “My parents have been my biggest inspiration in life. They have always supported and encouraged me, even during the toughest of times. They have taught me the importance of hard work, determination, and perseverance, and have instilled in me a strong sense of values and ethics. I am forever grateful for their love and guidance.”
2. Answer: “My grandmother has been a major source of inspiration for me. She was a survivor of World War II, and her strength and resilience in the face of adversity have always been a source of inspiration for me. She taught me the importance of never giving up, no matter how difficult things may seem.”
3. Answer: My mentor has been a huge inspiration to me. He has always been there to guide and support me, and his wisdom and experience have been invaluable. He has taught me the importance of staying true to my values, and of always striving to improve and grow as a person.”
4. Answer: “My best friend has been an inspiration to me. He has always been there to support me, and his positive attitude and optimistic outlook on life have always been a source of inspiration. He has taught me the importance of staying true to myself and of always looking for the good in people and situations.”
5. Answer: “My favorite author has been a source of inspiration for me. Reading their works has taught me the importance of creativity, imagination, and storytelling. Their words have inspired me to pursue my own passion for writing and storytelling, and have helped me to see the beauty and power in the world around me.”