In an interview, the majority of professionals will be asked, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?" at least once. This is a common question that employers use to learn more about your long-term objectives and how they relate to the job you're looking for. Even if you might not be certain of where you want to be in a few years, being ready to respond to this question will help you succeed and contribute to a successful interview overall.
In this article, we'll look at why employers ask candidates, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?" as well as tips for responding to this question and a few real-world examples you can use to prepare for your next interview.
Why do employers ask 'where do you see yourself in five years?'
The purpose of an interviewer asking you about your professional objectives for the next five years is to learn a few different things. They frequently ask to find out the following:
If you’ll stick around with the company for at least five years
The average tenure of an employee in that capacity will vary depending on the job for which you are applying. The longer employees remain in a position, the less anxiety the organisation needs to have about turnover and the costs associated with it. Therefore, this is important information that a potential employer would want to know before hiring you if you can't see yourself in that role or with that firm for at least the next few years.
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If your goals match what the employer is able to offer
In terms of how you want to advance in the position you're applying for, you probably have a few specific objectives in mind. The interviewer can let you know whether it's possible at that specific organisation if, for instance, you're looking for an entry-level position but would like to advance to a management position within the next five years. Additionally, you'll want to know if that particular employer offers the opportunity of changing to a completely new position in a different department or sector if you begin in one position with the intention of doing so.
How to answer 'where do you see yourself in five years?' in an interview
Establish specific goals for your career. Spend some time considering what you want from your job in the following five years. Do you desire to develop new skills? Are you considering a career in management in the future? Do you have any specific projects in mind? Are there any industries that particularly appeal to you to work in? Consider what you'd like to have on your CV in five years as another way to respond to this query. Do you desire specific certifications or a specific position title? Create a list of these goals.
Make links between the job description and your aspirations. Look at the job description and see if you can identify any attributes and skills you already have as well as those you wish to gain more experience in to help connect your goals with the position you're applying for. This will enable you to discuss your objectives in relation to the job you're seeking for during the interview.
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Example answers
Example 1:
"I want to successfully complete two certificates linked to my position in five years." Before this interview, I took the time to research your website, and I saw that you provide options for your staff to expand their education, which includes obtaining certifications to advance their careers. I genuinely feel that I can follow my professional aspirations and eventually advance into a management position within your company over the coming several years using the resources that your company offers its employees.
Examples 2:
"My long-term objective for the next five years is to become an expert in my job and move up to a managerial position within my department." I was intrigued to the individualised training approach that your company describes on its website, and I firmly feel that this training strategy will enable me to pick up new abilities and advance in my current role. I envision myself taking on fresh and interesting initiatives for your business over the next five years in order to position myself for a management position with the company.
