Imagine sitting across from the interview panel, heart racing, as they ask the inevitable question:

“Why do you want this job?”

For many STEM women, including brilliant leaders like Hazel Dickson, this question used to trigger a scramble for the ‘right’ answer. Something impressive. Something polished. But often, something disconnected from who they truly are.

The Traditional Trap

When asked “Why this job?”, the default is to talk about the company’s reputation, the job description, or your skills. But this keeps you stuck in the proving cycle:

• Proving you’re good enough.
• Proving you can fit the mould.
• Proving you’re the safe, sensible hire.

This old wiring stems from what we call external validation loops. A concept rooted in neuroscience and a topic Hazel explored deeply during her journey through the Career Design Mastermind. Her anxiety about getting things wrong wasn’t just about work performance; it was linked to deeper beliefs about self-worth.

The Intentional Shift

Hazel’s breakthrough came when she began asking:

“How does this role align with who I am becoming, not just can I do the job?”

Here’s the pivotal difference:

❌ Proving your worth.

✅ Articulating who you are and the vision you’re stepping into.

Through awareness tools and a rebalancing of all areas of life (not just career), Hazel shifted her mindset. The result?

1. She successfully negotiated a secondment perfectly aligned to her natural talents.
2. She landed a promotion.
3. She experienced confidence not as something to have, but as something to be.

And she could finally answer “Why do you want this job?” with ease and authenticity.

🎧 Listen to Dr Hazel Dickson’s podcast episode iTunes │ Spotify

Thought to Leave You With

When you truly understand yourself, your purpose, talents, and vision, you don’t just answer the question. You embody the answer from the inside out.

Reflective Journal Prompt

☕ What strengths am I hungry to use more fully?

As always, my inbox is open – I’m just an email away.

Keep opening up,
Hannah

P.S. When you’re ready, here are four ways I can support you:

• 📖 Benchmark your career for free Take the Career Accelerator Scorecard and receive your personalised strategy report.
• 💻 Join the Intentional Careers™ Workshop Register for free – multiple dates and times available. Sign up here
• 🎤 Book me as a speaker Looking for inspiration for your next event? Hit reply or visit hannahnikeroberts.com
• 🗣️ Explore the Career Design Mastermind Our flagship six-month group coaching programme. Cohort 10 commences in October.