Almost all of us have faced this question at least once while seeking jobs. It is particularly difficult to answer as the organisation may just be a stepping stone and not figure in your five-year plan. In such cases a candid answer can lose you points. Avoid cocky answers like “I want to be in your chair”. So, what is a good way to answer when the interviewer asks you “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
The best way is to give a broad outline of your goals and ambitions, without going into specifics. While it may seem a trick question, they just want to know whether you have realistic expectations of yourself, how committed you are to your career and what are your plans with regard to your current position and roles in the company.
For instance, your answer cannot be as honest as suggesting that you plan to start your own venture, but must align with the organisational interests. Like saying you would be ready to take on more managerial responsibilities in five years, or leading your own team or heading your own projects. This synthesis of your and organisational goals portrays the seriousness with which you view the current job position.
Remember Will Smith’s interview in the “Pursuit of Happiness”. After finally getting an appointment, he showed up for the interview in rags. With his confidence and wit, he convinced the panel of his skills and calibre. This scene is a classic on how to answer in an interview.
Setting too ambitious goals for your answer might discourage the organisation as they probably want someone to man the role for at least a year, before aspiring for a promotion. So, it is necessary to remain safe and not go overboard in projecting your ambitions.
With a little clarity and some preparation, you can ace an interview by getting this answer right.
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