Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

How to Answer "Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?"

Don't let this question scare you. Here's why they ask this in your interview:

• They want to see if you've thought about your professional future
• They want to make sure you're ambitious and hard-working
• They want to make sure the job they're offering fits with your goals So, pick a work-related goal of where you’d like to be 5 years from now, and make sure it’s slightly challenging or ambitious. Nobody's going to tap you on the shoulder in 5 years and check if you hit these goals! You just need to say something that will make you sound motivated (but realistic).

So show you've thought about this topic, sound ambitious and motivated, but be realistic. Also make sure your answer is related to their job. They won't hire you if their job doesn't seem to fit your goals and plans. Example Answer: “I’m glad you asked. One of the reasons that I applied to this job was your company’s reputation for helping with its employees’ career growth and providing advancement opportunities. In the long term I see myself mastering the skills needed to do well in this role and then taking on more leadership responsibilities to continue growing my career here. I hope to become a manager later in my career.”