A tricky question to be asked at an interview but you are almost certainly going to be asked it! Prepare your answers in advance so you do not get caught out.
What Motivates You?
The best way to prepare this answer would be to look at your skills on your CV and match them with the job description for the role that you are being interviewed for.
Think carefully, what does motivate you? Some people are motivated by making money, others are motivated by a challenge and doing well, what is it that motivates you to do a job well? That is what a potential employer is looking to see, how can they motivate you into doing a good job for them.
If you are being interviewed for a sales role where you will have targets to sell and you will earn commission based on how successful you are then saying that you are motivated by money is a probably quite appropriate however if you are going for a role in shop where you are not as likely to be earning commission on purchases it might be better to say that you are motivated by providing good customer service and ensuring that the customer has a good and pleasant shopping experience.
The question “what motivates you” shows what your strengths are, what makes you go that extra mile to achieve something and what you are confident and good at. You are asked this question to see if you are like minded to current employees and to see if you will fit into the company as well as whether your motivations will ensure you try your best to do a good job.
If you can remember to match the answer to this question in some way to the job you are being interviewed for you will stand a good job of answering it. Just remember to be positive and show them that you are the best person for the job with enthusiasm. Best Wishes.