Tell me about your dream job. (+10 Examples)

    25.

    Tell me about your dream job.

    The Goal

    The interviewer would like to know how this position fits your career goals and dreams. The goal of your response is to help the interviewer get to know you better while highlighting the alignment between your career dreams and what the hiring company has to offer.

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    What to Avoid

    Avoid giving a specific job title in your response. For instance, instead of saying, ‘My dream job is to be a photographer,’ consider focusing more on the general vibe of what you’d like to do – ‘My dream job is one that would allow me to exercise my creativity.’

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Pro Tip

    This open-ended question can be tricky to navigate! First, remember that you are not talking to a friend about your hopes and dreams. You are giving a career-related response to a potential employer.

    Maybe you want to be a university professor, but you’re applying for a summer swim coach position. In this case, make a connection between what excites you most about teaching university students and the accountabilities of the seasonal swim coach role. Using this example, you could state that your dream job includes teaching and training others, and you look forward to helping your swim students learn new swimming techniques.

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    How to Answer

    This question is one of the very few interview questions where you can be slightly ambiguous in your response. Consider taking one or more of these approaches:

    – Focus your reply on the skills, abilities, and knowledge you wish to gain in your career, regardless of the job title.
    – Make a connection between your career desires and what the hiring company offers.
    – Talk about what motivates you in your career and how the company’s approach aligns with your motivational factors.
    – Consider the company’s mission, and values then discuss how they align with your dream organization.
    – Describe the career achievements you want to bring to fruition. Then, define how you can accomplish these achievements with the hiring company.

    Make sure to tailor your response to the job and company you’re interviewing with.

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    1st Answer Example

    “My dream job is to work for a company that will allow me to grow in the hospitality industry while applying the knowledge I gained while earning my hospitality management diploma. I am most excited about this role with Hotel Group ABC because it will allow me to put into practice everything I learned about guest services, business management, human resources, and hospitality marketing.”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Admin Example

    “My dream job is not necessarily a specific function but more focused on the workplace vibe and company culture. I set my sights on your organization after seeing its name on the city’s ‘Top 25 Employer’ list. I researched your methods and mission and was very impressed. Company ABC would be a dream ‘fit’ for me.”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Manager Example

    “My dream job is one where I have the tools and support to be a great mentor to my team members. I am passionate about investing in my top performers, so a dream employer would be an organization that supports this passion. Would you agree that this describes Company ABC?”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Marketing Example

    “My dream job is one where I can exercise my creativity in a variety of ways. I appreciate that Agency ABC works in pods and that the agency allows engaged team players to try their hand at a variety of tasks that interest them. I look forward to joining this talented and diverse team.”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Retail Example

    “I love retail and fashion, which is why I applied to Company ABC. I am deeply interested in working my way up in the organization, perhaps in a merchandising or even a buyer role one day.”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Sales Example

    “Being a business development representative is my dream job! I am thrilled to be considered for this role and career path with Company ABC. The fact that the organization will provide international travel and continued education opportunities makes this position even more enticing.”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Teacher Example

    “My dream is to be an educator in a school that focuses less on traditional learning methods and allows for creativity in the classroom. When I read an article about the new teaching methods this school has implemented in its classes, I knew I had to apply.”

    Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

    Community Answers

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is working in a big company where I can apply my knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems. Also, I can grow and develop in a long term. I have a strong interest in this role at your company because I believe my skills and qualities are a good match. I have a strong learning ability and a can-do attitude. I truly believe this role is my dream job.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Marcie Wilmot

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer

    Nice! It sounds like you want to work for a large company where there are opportunities for growth and that you believe your skills and qualities suit this particular role. That’s great! You’ve mentioned ‘real-world problems’ a few times now – what types of real-world problems do you hope to solve? Also, what kind of growth are you hoping for? Do you want to one day manage other people? Your answer is strong but adding more specifics will make it even stronger.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is the position that will allow me to grow and learn new aspects of industry and help apply my current education knowledge. I am most excited about this role with your company as it ticks all the boxes as a practice manager.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    This is a good start; however, adding in more detail will improve your response. For instance, in what ways do you want to grow? What would you like to learn? Which parts of your current education and knowledge will you be able to apply most frequently in this role?

    User-Submitted Answer

    “A dream job would be one where I can contribute to growing the business in more than one way. Being in sales or a BDM is a dream job because it allows me to focus on being the face of the company. I have a passion for working with people and strive to become successful with all of the teams that are essential for continuous growth.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    This answer is a strong start. If the role that you are applying for falls into this ‘dream job’ category, be sure to include why you feel this way. When using terms such as the face of the company, passion for working with people, etc., be sure to support these frequently use phrases with real data on how you would execute on these initiatives.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “A job where my skills may provide a meaningful contribution to a cause that deeply resonates with me. The workspace is a positive environment that encourages continual learning and growth.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    These are wonderful qualities to find in a dream job 🙂 When it comes to the contribution you make, the factors that resonate with you, and the workplace environment, there is an opportunity to provide more specifics. I have provided a starter for you, below.

    “My dream job is one where my skills provide a meaningful contribution to a cause that deeply resonates with me. When it comes to this role, that would be my ABC skills working toward your company’s goal of XYZ. I also value a workspace with a positive environment (add some descriptors or an example of what a positive environment means to you). I also value an environment that encourages continual learning and growth. For myself, I would like to grow in the areas of A, B, and C.”

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is a hybrid position in a downtown city working with node.js and react. I prefer a full-stack position because I like a diverse, holistic view of the product. I like a job in which I am able to give my own personal input into the features of a product. And finally, I prefer a fun, “startupy” type company to a pure tech company.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Amanda Knight

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer

    It sounds like you know what kind of environment and work you like to do. You can take this answer another step further by talking about the kind of team you like to work in, the products or services you enjoy creating, or the industries you’re most interested in impacting.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is to work for a company that will allow me to grow in the animal research industry while applying the knowledge I gained working as a P1 contractor. I’m most excited about this position because it will give me endless opportunities to grow.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Stephanie Cafaro

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer

    From this response, it’s clear you’ve thought a lot about your professional goals. While growth opportunities are exciting, I would suggest strengthening your response by including some aspect of the current role you’re applying to that does align with your career dreams. For example, if you’ll be gaining new knowledge or exposure to new content or skills, this would be a great time to mention that.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is to work in a position where I can have a long-lasting and meaningful impact on people. 5-10 years from now, I want to be able to look back and say, wow, I was responsible for this deal, or I helped make this investment happen. And this firm is a great place to do that because I know I’ll always be working at the forefront of technology. In the finance department, I’ll be part of a team that makes investments in technology, such as rolling out a new 5G network, which will change the way we all live and work. This is something that really excites me and is something I really want to be a part of.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    Very well said! You do a nice job describing your ideal workplace scenario while also tying in how this particular role will be a perfect fit.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is not necessarily a specific function but more focused on the workplace vibe and company culture. I set my sights on your organization after I saw your name on the Top Employer list. I researched your methods and mission and was very impressed. This company would be a dream ‘fit’ for me.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Amanda Knight

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer

    Terrific answer! You can build on this answer by telling the interview what specific aspects of the company’s mission or methods make it an ideal fit for you.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “I want to work on events that push me to think outside of the box. Push me to be creative, smart and fuel the passion I have to be a strong woman in the events industry. I really think this job will teach me this.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Stephanie Cafaro

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer

    Your passion for events really shines through, however, I suggest being a bit more specific, if possible. What exactly would your dream job look like? What type of events? What type of company would you work for? A few more specific details will help take your response up a notch!

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is something to do with advising people on their health and wellbeing and in a manager position where I can learn and grow.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Stephanie Cafaro

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer

    In the “Revised Answer” section, I have provided a suggestion of how this response might be re-worded for clarity and impact.

    “I am passionate about healthcare and value being in a role where I can make an impact on others, so my dream job involves being in a role where I can advise people on their health and wellbeing. I also welcome the opportunity to join a company where I can learn and grow professionally within a management position.”

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is at the intersection of using my brain and using my hands. I like problem-solving and thinking, but also applying these problem-solving skills physically with my hands. I think that’s why I am a great candidate for this position. Gives a great balance that will complement my skills.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Chad Wilson

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Chad Wilson Reviewed the Above Answer

    This is a good start; however, including more detail will improve your response. For instance, in what specific ways does the position you are interviewing for complement your existing skills? Which parts of your current education and knowledge will you be able to apply most frequently in the role?

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is to work with a team to bring something different and unique to the company. I believe that as a Boeing Defence Australia employee, I will be able to join other innovative, ethical people who have the critical skills required to develop and deliver world-class capabilities and systems to protect Australia and its national interests. I believe that joining your company would be a great chance for me to make my mark and work with a diverse team united in pushing the boundaries of imagination and excellence.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    Your passion for this job and the company shines through! You focus a lot on the feelings of the role and the environment instead of specific responsibilities, which is a great way to avoid pigeonholing yourself into one particular job title. The interviewer should be able to picture you flourishing in their work environment for many years to come, in this role, and through future advancements.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job would allow me to grow my medical knowledge and experience, as well as offer an opportunity to give back to medically underserved and rural communities to make a difference in people’s lives and health. This has been paramount in my pursuit to become a physician.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    Your desires are clear, and the interviewers should appreciate the consistency of your professional goals. At the end of your answer, I recommend giving a qualifying statement regarding how this particular opportunity aligns with your dream job. I have provided a starter for you below.

    “My dream job will allow me to grow in my medical knowledge and experience while offering an opportunity to give back to medically underserved and rural communities. I desire to make a difference in people’s lives and health, and these goals have been the foundation of my pursuit to become a physician. This opportunity aligns very well with my career desires as your hospital offers…(discuss the connection between this employers’ offering and your career dreams).”

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is one where I am working with a team to build a product that makes a difference. I have the opportunity to explore how to deliver this product more efficiently while getting everyone on the team involved and feeling equally satisfied with their contributions as well.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    These are excellent details to include in your response. You know what you want, and the interviewer will appreciate that.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is to work with talented creative people and individuals that I can learn from.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    This response is a good start! Next, try to unpack further what that looks like for you. What types of talents do these creative individuals have? What areas of work or specific topics would you like to learn?

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is one that would allow me to lead a team within an organization that has endless opportunities to grow. In this position, my team would be the one that is making a difference in both the customer’s life and the company’s business growth.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    Good start. Try being more descriptive by bringing in facts and statements from the job description. The more specific you can be, the better!

    User-Submitted Answer

    “One that allows me to grow as a person and within the company, receiving new challenges, and values my work.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    You take a positive approach, which is fantastic! Try offering up a fuller picture such as what these challenges would look like, and what kind of growth opportunities you would like to see.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is one that would allow me to lead a team within an organization that has endless opportunities to grow. In this position, my team would be the one that is making a difference in both the customer’s life and the companies business growth.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    This is a good start! Be sure to express what you believe the difference to be, specifically, with this company.

    User-Submitted Answer

    “My dream job is one where I am working with talented and creative people. Also, like-minded individuals that love to create functional well design products that make a difference in an interchanging fast pace world.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Rachelle Enns

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

    Awesome! You are very specific here, giving the interviewer a strong idea of what you are looking for in your next opportunity.

    “My dream job is one where I am working with talented creative people and like-minded individuals who love to create functional, well-designed products that make a difference in an interchanging fast-paced world.”

    User-Submitted Answer

    “One day to be a manager of this lab.”

    Written by an Anonymous User

    Lauren McCabe

    Our Professional Interview Coach
    Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer

    Be sure to add more context; the interviewer wants more explanation.

    “I have career aspirations to be a lab manager. I am hoping to expand my skills to achieve those goals in the future.”