How to answer "Are you a thinker, planner, or doer?" in a job interview

You've landed an interview for a job you really want! You've researched possible interview questions and rehearsed your answers.

You answer all the questions confidently until...the interviewer asks, "Are you a thinker, a planner, or a doer?"

When interviewers ask this question, they really want to know about your motivation.

Before answering that question:

• Explore each type of motivation

• Read sample answers for each motivation

• Determine which motivation you align to

• Prepare to answer the question confidently for your next interview

Thinkers are:

• Explorers of ideas

• Good brainstormers

• Good at breaking down ideas

• Deep thinkers about problems

• Open-minded

• Critical thinkers

• Imaginative and creative

• Seekers of information

• Problem solvers

• Detailed-oriented

If this is you....

You might answer the question by saying...

"I gather information and consider all the possibilities. I look for ways to create new ideas and find answers to problems. I deeply consider problems and find the best solutions. I consider different viewpoints."

Specific Examples: 

• Explorers of ideas: "I came up with a new idea for a project that I'd like to share."

• Brainstormers: "I jotted down several topics we could discuss at our first meeting."

• Breaking down ideas: "I prioritized our staff meeting into specific categories."

• Deep thinkers: "I've given this a lot of thought and I've come to the conclusion...."

• Open-minded: "I'm willing to consider the CEO's perspective on the project."

Planners are:

• Organizers of systems and processes

• Strategic in finding desired outcomes

• Adaptable to changes

• Dissectors of problems

• Driven by goals

• Masters of time management

• Strong communicators

• Proactive with their methods

If this is you...

You might answer the question by saying,...

"I create structured plans and organize lists to accomplish goals. I outline the best way to execute my plans to reach my goals. I consider possible unexpected events. "

Specific Examples:

• Organizers: "Here is a system that I created to increase productivity."

• Adaptable to changes: "I have a contingency plan in case something goes wrong."

• Masters of time management: "I created a time line for the completion of our project."

• Driven by goals: "My goal is to become settled into the team by August."

• Strong communicators: "In my presentation, I considered my audience and used language relevant to them."

Doers are:

• People who prefer to "get things done"

• Self-starters

• Overcomers of obstacles

• Lovers of hands-on projects

• Practical, no-nonsense people

• Quick to find solutions to problems

• Fast paced workers

• Independent workers

• Thrivers in active environments

• Those that value results

If this is you...

You might answer by saying,...

"I take quick action to get things done. I enjoy a fast paced environment where quick thinking is key. I thrive with hands-on tasks.I overcome obstacles to get a job done. I'm a self-starter and independent worker who also values teamwork."

Specific Examples:

• Getting things done: "I completed the project ahead of schedule."

• Self-starter: "I'm comfortable working on my own and getting started right away."

• Lovers of hands-on projects: "I'll be glad to roll up my sleeves and get my hands dirty."

• No-nonsense: "Let's cut to the chase and just focus on what's important."

• Those that value results: "I'm excited when the ratings increase on our site!"

This can be a tricky question if you don't know which one you are.

Take steps to prepare your answer: