Glassdoor CEO 'loves' to ask this simple question during job interviews—it can reveal a major red flag

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For job interviews. His favorite: What is your dream job?

Typically when people come in to interview with me, it's usually during one of the later stages," says Sutherland-Wong, who has been leading the job review website since 2020. "At that point, their qualifications and capabilities have already been evaluated. So I'm just looking forward to getting to know the individual.

Each candidate's response may potentially raise a significant concern: an individual without goals and ambitions.

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When someone can't think clearly about their career goals, it's a red flag," Sutherland-Wong says. "When there's a lack of enthusiasm in their response, I want to keep pushing them for more answers to see if that's really the right fit.

Answers like "I'm not sure," "I haven't really thought about it," or "I just want a job that pays me well" can indicate a lack of personal purpose or career motivation.

We're looking for individuals with big aspirations and high hopes.

To provide a successful response to a query.

Andrew McCaskill.

The best responses to questions about your dream job should explain how the current role will help you reach that goal," says McCaskill, who has held positions such as vice president at companies like Weber Shandwick and Nielsen. "A common mistake job seekers make during their search is giving the impression they're looking for 'any' job, not the specific one available. Showing genuine interest in the job at hand is crucial.

If your ideal job is at a different company or in a different field, you can still tailor your answer to match the position. Say something like: "My dream job is one that allows me to apply my key skills to make a significant difference and take on key responsibilities. Your company's goal of [specific company values] aligns perfectly with that vision."

This role may not help you achieve the goals you have for your long-term future, so passing up this opportunity could potentially cost it to you.

You're not going to tell a CMO interviewing you for a marketing job that your dream job is in corporate finance," McCaskill says, "The interviewer may appreciate your honesty, but [they] will probably let you figure that out on someone else's dime.

Register for 's online course "Before we get into salary discussions," you can start by saying, "I want to emphasize my enthusiasm for the role and the company." Experienced trainers will teach you the skills you need to earn a higher salary, including how to prepare and boost your confidence, what actions to take and words to say, and how to create a counteroffer.

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