Finding the ideal response to the interview question “where do you see yourself in five years?” may be a minefield. It's perhaps one of the trickiest interview questions
Although we advise being as clear as possible when responding to most interview questions (such as “do you have any questions for me?” and “why should we hire you? “), in this case being more ambiguous about your ambitions is probably the preferable course of action.
Finding the right response to this interview question involves careful thought because you need to avoid sounding implausible while also making sure that you don't come across as uninterested.
Why do employer's ask “where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
It's obvious that providing the appropriate response to this interview question might be challenging, therefore it's critical to first consider the reasons why employers have chosen to ask it.
1. To check if your objectives line up with theirs
Employers don't genuinely expect you to know exactly where you'll be in five years when they ask what you plan to accomplish.
They want to know that you have a long-term strategy and that this particular function (and their company) fits in to your five-year plan, not that you have a short-term strategy.
Your response will allow the employer to determine whether your career objectives line up with how they envision you developing in the position and will serve as confirmation that you and they share the same ambitions.
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2. To determine your level of dedication to the position
Employers want to know if you plan on sticking around for the long term, which is why they ask you this typical interview question. They want to know how this position fits into your long-term goals, so you need to reassure them that you won't quit as soon as a better opportunity arises.
To demonstrate your dedication to the position and the potential for advancement it offers, it's a wonderful idea to try to say that you hope to still be working for this organisation in five years—probably in a more senior post.
3. To assess your level of ambition
While you don't have to be specific about the position you're applying for, saying things like “I'd like to challenge myself by moving to a different office” or “I'd be interested in being in a managerial position in five years” will show the employer that you have lofty goals and the motivation to advance your career.
Examples of where you picture yourself in 5 years
Example 1
“I hope to have demonstrated to management in five years that I have the drive and commitment to significantly contribute to the expansion of the company by taking some truly encouraging moves ahead and forging strong bonds with clients and coworkers along the way.
If the chance for further advancement presented itself, I would be thrilled to take it, but I realise that in order to get there, I must first satisfactorily complete current role.”
Example 2
“My five-year career goal involves pushing myself to succeed in every task I meet and assuming increasing levels of responsibility. I noticed that you have a mentor programme on your website, and I would want to participate in it since I think it's a fantastic concept for new hires who are just joining the firm.
Naturally, if the opportunity arose, I would be interested in further job advancement, perhaps even managing a small team, but I recognise that any additional responsibility comes with time once I have established my abilities and assisted the business in growing.”
Example 3
“I consider myself to be a really ambitious guy who just likes to get things done. In five years, I'll have met both professional and personal objectives for the business.
I would welcome the chance for promotion, perhaps to a managerial or supervisory role, where I can continue to develop with the business and help and mentor other employees as they pursue their professional goals.”
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