Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?

Behind this question, your interviewer aims to understand your goals as a professional and what role this potentially new job will play in your career. In addition, this question will help them understand how long you’re planning on staying in the company or if you’re going to leave if a better opportunity comes up.

Before preparing an answer for this question, remember to avoid the following things.

1. Avoid saying job titles. You can’t control what position you might receive within the company, but you can share your goals and what kind of knowledge you wish to receive from the position.

2. Avoid sharing something unrelated to the job, such as opening your own business or starting a career in a completely different job.

While you share your goals, emphasize your desire to learn from the position. If you’re planning on stepping up in the company, a good way to share this information is, while avoiding any job titles, by sharing your disposition to mentor others and taking on big projects.

Here’s a sample answer to guide you through your preparation:

“I’m very excited about this opportunity because it aligns with my goals. In five years, I see myself with a lot of expertise in this particular field. I’m also eager to pass on my knowledge, so I look for opportunities to mentor others and to take on bigger projects. I feel that these things will increase my capacity within my professional life.”

Remember these things and you’ll be great! Good luck!