Find a Job You Really Want In
This question is often dreaded by candidates, and it’s easy to see why. Many people find it tempting to respond with a humorous remark, like leaning back in their chair and jokingly saying, “Running this place.” However, it’s essential to approach this question seriously, as it plays a crucial role in how interviewers evaluate potential candidates.
While the question may seem straightforward—aimed at gauging your motivation and commitment—it can be tricky to answer effectively. That’s why this common interview question can evoke such strong feelings among job seekers and interviewers alike.
At its core, the question seeks to identify candidates who are ambitious, proactive, and likely to remain with the company long-term. Interviewers want to know if your career goals align with the organization’s objectives. Similar questions may include:
- How do you define success in your career?
- What are your long-term career aspirations?
- What are you looking to achieve in this role?
By asking these questions, interviewers can better assess whether you will fit into their culture and whether you are likely to stay with them for an extended period.
Here’s the Perfect Response
Interestingly, recent reports indicate that the average tenure in a job is around 4.6 years, which raises questions about the expectation of longevity in a role. Even so, interviewers appreciate responses that imply commitment and a willingness to grow within the company, such as:
“My primary focus is to excel in the role we’re discussing. While I don’t consider myself overly ambitious, I hold myself to high standards and hope to contribute to the team significantly. Over time, I’d like to explore new projects and responsibilities within the company.”
This response keeps the discussion relevant to the current position while indicating your desire for a long-term relationship with the company. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced tone.
Because This is Not a Friendly Question
While it’s crucial to stand out in an interview, this particular question is an exception. You don’t want your answer to be memorable for the wrong reasons. Interviewers often look for red flags in responses that suggest you may not be happy in the role or stay long.
Hiring managers are cautious about candidates who might leave soon after being hired. This question serves as a filter to identify those who may not be a good fit or who might leave the company in the short term.
Some Alternative Ways to Think of This Question and Answer
When preparing your answer, remember that this interview is for the position you are currently applying for, not a hypothetical future job. Frame your response to suggest that you have clear goals while implying that you are committed to the position at hand.
Consider framing it as: “What do I want to achieve in this position by the five-year mark?” This perspective can help you formulate a more focused answer.
And as Always, Do Your Research.
Make sure your response is realistic and aligned with the company’s current situation. Research the organization through its website or LinkedIn to understand its values and employee structure. This knowledge will allow you to craft an answer that resonates with the company’s culture.
Look for:
- Career paths for the position
- Career development opportunities
- Interesting projects and initiatives
For instance, if the company values community engagement, you might say, “I hope to utilize the skills I develop here to contribute positively to the community.”
Your goal is to position yourself as an ideal candidate in the present, indicating your commitment to the company for years to come.
So Here Are Some Things to Say About Where You Hope to Be in Five Years
Be Broad and General. Provide a general answer that doesn’t tie you to a specific career path, as you may not know the company’s promotion tracks or career paths.
Whatever your ambitions, always:
Emphasize Your Commitment to the Company. Frame your answer to assume you will be with the company in the future, even though no one can predict it accurately.
Indicate Your Desire for Growth, But Avoid Specific Titles. Instead of joking about taking over the company, suggest that you wish to progress and grow with the organization without focusing on specific titles.
Ensure Your Aspirations are Realistic. If you’re accepting a job out of necessity, don’t disclose that. Instead, focus on the stability and reliability this position offers. Make a list of what you value about the job, and communicate these in your answer.
Don’t Say:
“I’m considering getting my MBA or going to law school.”
Even if the company offers educational support, avoid suggesting that you might leave for further education. Instead, express a desire for growth that aligns with the company’s needs.
“Why?”
Don’t question why they are asking; use it as an opportunity to express your genuine interest in the position.
“Celebrating the fifth anniversary of you asking me this question.”
This type of humor can come off as unprofessional. Keep your response serious and focused.
“Polishing my CEO plaque before I call in one of my nine direct reports.”
Avoid suggesting unrealistic expectations; it may signal to the interviewer that you are not likely to stay long-term.
“I don’t know, it’s the future, ya dummy.”
Maintain professionalism; instead of being dismissive, show that you are thoughtful and prepared.
Ultimately, your goal is to provide a response that assures the hiring manager of your commitment and alignment with the company’s values and future.
Author
David Luther was the Content Marketing Editor for the Zippia Advice blog. He developed partnerships with external reporting agencies in addition to generating original research and reporting for the Zippia Career Advice blog. David obtained his BA from UNC Chapel Hill.
