The interviewer is trying to ascertain your reasons for pursuing a career in this area (whether that is as a records manager or legal librarian). They’re also trying to find out what attracts you to the job and what your career needs are. Your response will then be analysed to see how your ‘requirements’ measure up to the needs of the organisation. ‘Is there a synergy between your goals and ambitions and those of the organisation?’ That’s what the interviewer will be thinking.

Whether your answers match the employer’s requirements will depend on whether you have a good understanding of the vocation. Research is paramount in being able to convey your knowledge and genuine interest to a potential employer. Uninformed applicants who have not gathered the relevant information will find it difficult to provide the interviewer with adequate and persuasive answers.