March 20, 2025

Best Prompt to Answer ‘Why Do You Want to Work in IT After [Your Background]?’

If you’ve ever been hit with the interview question “Why do you want to work in IT after [your background]?”, you know it can feel like a curveball—especially if your degree isn’t in tech.

A lot of us fumble, either giving a bland “I like computers” answer or sounding like we’re just chasing a paycheck, which doesn’t impress anyone.

This blog breaks down a simple prompt that helps you craft a killer response, a personal story that makes the interviewer lean in.

Step by Step Process to Generate Answer For ‘Why IT After [Your Background]?’

Below are the steps to the prompt to generate answer for “why do you want to work in it after [your background]? ” in an interview:

Step 1: Copy and Paste the Prompt in ChatGPT

*”I need help answering the interview question: ‘Why do you want to work in IT after [My Background]?’ I want the option to choose between a quick, generic response or a more personalized, compelling answer.
Please ask me one question at a time to collect key details before generating my answer. After I provide my educational background, first generate a generic answer. Then, ask if I want to personalize it further. Explain that personalization makes my response more engaging and convincing, increasing my chances of impressing the interviewer. If I choose to personalize, guide me step by step.
Make the process fast and efficient by providing numbered options for selection instead of requiring me to type responses. Once the full answer is generated, ask if I prefer a shorter, concise version.”*

✅ Rules for My Answer:
✔ First, generate a generic response immediately after collecting educational background.
✔ Then, ask if the user wants a more personalized version. Explain why personalization is beneficial.
✔ If they choose to personalize, guide them step by step with structured, easy-to-pick options.
✔ Provide a minimum of five numbered, objective examples per question for easy selection, plus a sixth option for custom input. (Users should only need to select numbers, except for highly personalized input.)
✔ Ensure a fast & easy selection process with minimal typing required.
✔ Allow me to choose between a detailed or concise version at the end.

✔ At the beginning of every question, show progress status in this format:

“Question X of Y (Z% Complete)”

(Example: “Question 3 of 6 (50% Complete)”)

This helps the user know how far along they are and stay motivated to complete the flow.
❌ Don’t make it sound like I’m switching to IT just for money.
❌ Don’t give a vague or robotic answer—help me personalize it.

🤖 Chatbot Flow (Step-by-Step Input Collection – Optimized for Generic & Personalized Responses)

1️⃣ “What’s your educational background? (Degree, field, and university)” (User must manually input their details.)

Example Format:

Degree: Mechanical Engineering
University: IIT Delhi

👉 Now, AI generates a generic response based on the educational background.

🟢 “Here’s a quick, general answer based on your background:”
“Although I pursued a degree in [Degree], I have developed a strong interest in IT due to its dynamic and problem-solving nature. IT offers exciting challenges, continuous learning, and the opportunity to work on innovative projects. I believe transitioning into IT will allow me to apply my analytical skills and creativity in a high-growth industry.”

2️⃣ “Would you like to personalize this answer further to make it more engaging and impactful? It will take just 30 seconds, but personalization increases your chances of impressing the interviewer.”

✅ Yes → Continue with personalization.
❌ No → Skip to the next step.

(Personalization Steps for Those Who Opt-In)

3️⃣ “When did you first get interested in IT? Pick one or more by selecting the number(s). No need to type your response.” (Objective examples provided for easy selection.)
1️⃣ Took an online coding course and found it fascinating
2️⃣ Worked on a college project that involved programming
3️⃣ Started self-learning Python and automation out of curiosity
4️⃣ Got inspired by real-world tech innovations and their impact
5️⃣ Participated in a hackathon or tech competition
6️⃣ Other (Specify)

4️⃣ “What do you enjoy the most about IT? Pick one or more by selecting the number(s).” (Objective examples provided for easy selection.)
1️⃣ Problem-solving and logical thinking
2️⃣ The ability to build real-world solutions
3️⃣ Continuous learning and evolving technology
4️⃣ Creativity in software development and UI/UX
5️⃣ The career growth and industry demand in IT
6️⃣ Other (Specify)

5️⃣ “Have you done anything related to IT? Pick one or more by selecting the number(s).” (Objective examples provided for easy selection.)
1️⃣ Completed an online course (Coursera, Udemy, etc.)
2️⃣ Built a personal project (website, app, automation script, etc.)
3️⃣ Did an internship or freelance work in IT
4️⃣ Solved coding problems on platforms like LeetCode, CodeChef
5️⃣ Participated in tech meetups, communities, or open-source projects
6️⃣ Other (Specify)

6️⃣ “How does IT align with your strengths and skills? Pick one or more by selecting the number(s).” (Objective examples provided for easy selection.)
1️⃣ My background in engineering helps me approach problems logically
2️⃣ I enjoy analyzing data and drawing insights, which is useful in IT
3️⃣ My ability to learn quickly allows me to adapt to new technologies
4️⃣ I love working on structured challenges like coding and debugging
5️⃣ IT provides opportunities for collaboration and creative problem-solving
6️⃣ Other (Specify)

7️⃣ “Now, let’s connect everything. Why do you think IT is the right career path for you? Pick one or more by selecting the number(s).” (Objective examples provided for easy selection.)
1️⃣ IT combines problem-solving, creativity, and innovation
2️⃣ The field offers rapid career growth and skill development
3️⃣ I enjoy learning new technologies and applying them in projects
4️⃣ IT allows me to work in a dynamic and impactful industry
5️⃣ The tech industry is future-proof and offers global career opportunities
6️⃣ Other (Specify)

🟠 Auto-Enhancement Step
8️⃣ “Now that I have your answers, I will refine your response using storytelling techniques to make it structured and engaging. Here’s your improved version:”
9️⃣ (New Step: User Choice for Detailed or Concise Version)
“Would you like a more concise version of your answer for quick recall?”

✅ Yes → Generate a shorter version with only the key points.
❌ No → Keep the detailed version as is.

First things first, take the full prompt from this blog and copy-paste it into an AI large language model.

You’ve got plenty of options to choose from, like Grok (from xAI), ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude (by Anthropic), or Microsoft Copilot.

Step 2: Start with Your Background

why do you want to work in it after your background step 2 — Entering degree, field, and university to set the foundation

The prompt begins by asking for your educational background—your degree, field, and university.

It’s the foundation of your answer, setting up why you’re making the leap to IT.

Purpose: To anchor your response in your past and show where you’re coming from.

How to Answer?

Degree: Mechanical Engineering
University: IIT Delhi

What to Do:

Share your exact degree and university to kick things off clearly.
Keep it short—just the facts, no extra bluff.
Use this as your starting point to explain the shift later.

What Not to Do:

Don’t skip this—your background matters to the question.
Avoid vague answers like “I studied engineering somewhere.”
Don’t ramble about unrelated stuff like high school.

Step 3: Get Your Generic Answer

why do you want to work in it after your background step 3 — Generating a quick, ready-to-use response based on background

Right after you give your background, the prompt whips up a quick, generic response you can use as-is. It’s a solid fallback if you’re short on time or not ready to dive deeper.

Purpose: To give you an instant, safe answer that still sounds decent.

Example:

‘Although I pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Delhi, I’ve developed a strong interest in IT due to its dynamic and problem-solving nature.

IT offers exciting challenges, continuous learning, and the opportunity to work on innovative projects.

I believe transitioning into IT will allow me to apply my analytical skills and creativity in a high-growth industry.’

What to Do:

Take this as your baseline—it’s ready to go.
Practice it a couple times to sound natural.
Use it if you’re happy with something simple but solid.

What Not to Do:

Don’t tweak it to sound money-hungry, like “IT pays well.”
Avoid overusing it without personalizing if you want to stand out.
Don’t assume it’s enough for tough interviewers—consider Step 3.

Step 4: Decide to Personalize

why do you want to work in it after your background step 4 — Choosing whether to refine the response for a more unique answer

Now the prompt asks if you want to make your answer more you—it’s optional, but it’s where the magic happens.

Personalizing takes 30 seconds and turns a meh response into something memorable.

Purpose: To let you choose between basic and bold, with a nudge to shine.

How to Answer?

✅ Yes

What to Do:

Say “Yes” if you want to impress with a unique story.
Trust the prompt’s promise—it’s fast and worth it.
Skip to Step 4 if you pick “Yes”; otherwise, jump to Step 8.

What Not to Do:

Don’t pick “No” just because you’re lazy—personal wins.
Avoid overthinking; the next steps are easy.
Don’t assume generic is always enough—it’s safe, not standout.

Step 5. Pinpoint Your IT Spark

why do you want to work in it after your background step 5 — Selecting what first sparked interest in IT

If you said “Yes,” this step asks when you first got hooked on IT—just pick a number from the options.

It’s about showing what sparked your interest, no TYPING needed.

Purpose: To reveal the moment IT clicked for you.

How to Answer?

3 (Started self-learning Python and automation out of curiosity)

What to Do:

Pick 1-2 numbers that feel true to your journey.
Go with option 6 if your spark’s unique, then add a quick note.
Keep it honest—it’s the root of your story.

What Not to Do:

Don’t pick something random just to fill space.
Avoid big lies like “I coded since birth”—keep it real.
Don’t skip this; it’s what makes your shift believable.

Step 6: Share What You Love About IT

why do you want to work in it after your background step 6 — Picking what excites you most about working in IT

Next, the prompt asks what you enjoy most about IT—again, just pick numbers. This shows why IT keeps you excited, not just why you started.

Purpose: To highlight what drives your passion for IT.

How to Answer?

1 (Problem-solving and logical thinking)

What to Do:

Choose 1-2 options that match your energy.
Use option 6 for something specific, like “building apps.”
Focus on enjoyment, not just “it’s practical.”

What Not to Do:

Don’t say “the salary”, the prompt bans it.
Avoid picking all 5 options—it looks fake.
Don’t go off-script; stick to the list for speed.

Step 7: Show Your IT Action

why do you want to work in it after your background step 7 — Listing real actions taken to develop IT skills

This step digs into what you’ve done in IT—pick from the list to prove you’re not just talking. It’s okay if it’s small; the prompt’s got options for everyone.

Purpose: To back up your interest with real steps you’ve taken.

How to Answer?

2 (Built a personal project – website)

What to Do:

Select 1-2 things you’ve actually done, even if basic.
Use option 6 for cool extras, like “tinkered with AI.”
Keep it tied to IT, not your old field.

What Not to Do:

Don’t fake big wins like “I built Google”—it’s obvious.
Avoid unrelated stuff, like “I fixed a car.”
Don’t leave it blank; pick something small if needed.

Step 8: Connect Your Strengths

why do you want to work in it after your background step 8 — Explaining how past skills complement an IT career

Here, you pick how IT fits your skills from your background—super easy with numbers. It ties your past to your IT future without sounding forced.

Purpose: To show how your old skills boost your IT game.

How to Answer?

1 (My background in engineering helps me approach problems logically)

What to Do:

Pick 1-2 options that link your degree to IT naturally.
Go with option 6 if your strength’s unique, like “I’m a fast debugger.”
Focus on skills, not just “I’m smart.”

What Not to Do:

Don’t force a weak link, like “I’m good at math, so IT.”
Avoid repeating Step 5— this is about your fit, not IT’s appeal.
Don’t skip; it’s the glue for your story.

Step 9: Seal the Deal with Your “Why”

why do you want to work in it after your background step 9 — Selecting the core reason behind choosing IT as a career

Last personalization step—why IT’s your path. Pick from the list to wrap up your reasoning with a big-picture.

Purpose: To tie it all together and sell your IT dream.

How to Answer?

1 (IT combines problem-solving, creativity, and innovation)

What to Do:

Choose 1-2 options that feel like your truth.
Use option 6 for a personal twist, like “IT’s my puzzle to solve.”
Make it upbeat—show you’re pumped for IT.

What Not to Do:

Don’t say “it’s stable”—keep it passion-driven.
Avoid picking all options; one strong “why” is enough.
Don’t rush—let this land your story.

Step 10: See Your Polished Answer

why do you want to work in it after your background step 10 — Creating a smooth, compelling response based on all inputs

The prompt takes all your picks and spins them into a smooth, engaging answer. It’s your full story, ready to roll.

Purpose: To hand you a standout response that flows like a pro.

Example:

“Coming from Mechanical Engineering at IIT Delhi, I never thought I’d end up chasing IT—until I started messing with Python out of curiosity and got totally hooked.

I love how IT’s all about solving puzzles with logic, and building that personal website felt like cracking a code I didn’t know I could.

My engineering brain fits right in—it’s all about breaking down problems—and honestly, IT’s mix of creativity and innovation just feels like where I’m meant to be.”

What to Do:

Read it over; it’s your story now.
Practice it a few times to nail the delivery.
Tweak tiny words if you want, but keep the flow.

What Not to Do:

Don’t revert to a list—let the story shine.
Avoid adding cash talk—it kills the talk.
Don’t skip practicing; it’s gotta sound natural.

Step 11: Pick Your Length

why do you want to work in it after your background step 11 — Option to shorten the response for quick recall in interviews

Finally, the prompt asks if you want a shorter version for quick recall. Say “Yes” or “No,” and it adjusts—perfect for any interview pace.

Purpose: To match your answer to your comfort zone.

How to Answer?

✅ Yes

Concise Version:

“I’m a Mechanical Engineering grad from IIT Delhi, but I got into IT after playing with Python and building a website. I love problem-solving, and it fits my logical side perfectly—plus, it’s creative and exciting.”

What to Do:

Pick “Yes” for a 20-second version.
Stick with “No” if you like the full punch.
Use the short one for quick intros, long one for deeper chats.

What Not to Do:

Don’t skip deciding—know your style.
Avoid mashing both together; pick one.
Don’t add extra after this—you’re done!

Final Words

Switching to IT from a non-tech background doesn’t have to feel like a stretch—with this prompt, you’ve got a clear path to explain why it makes sense for you.

Try it out, make it yours, and next time someone asks “Why IT after [your background]?”, you’ll have an answer that’s ready to roll—and maybe even land you the job!

Thirumoorthy

Thirumoorthy serves as a teacher and coach. He obtained a 99 percentile on the CAT. He cleared numerous IT jobs and public sector job interviews, but he still decided to pursue a career in education. He desires to elevate the underprivileged sections of society through education