Interview Question Where do you see yourself five years from now

Interview Question Where do you see yourself five years from now Often times during an interview, the potential employer will ask a question similar to the following, “Where do you envision yourself in five years?” What is the appropriate answer? Is there an appropriate answer? Or, are you just trying to tell them what you believe they want to hear? When I have been the interviewer and asked this question, I typically wanted to ensure that the candidate had some sort of a plan. It wasn’t necessary that they had every detail figured out, but it was nice to know they had future goals and aspirations. I truly believe that employers seek those candidates that are goal-oriented and forward-thinking. This question can also bring up some other issues. For example, if you are thinking of only living in this particular geographic area for one to two years, is this the best time to bring that up? Probably not. Think about it from the employer’s point of view: are you going to want to hire someone that will be leaving after only a year? Training a new employee takes a great deal of time and money; why would a company invest in an employee that sees the job as a short-term gig? Instead, focus on the career goals you want to achieve, not necessarily the geographic area where you wish to achieve them. And, I should say, I do have a personal pet peeve when it comes to this question. After asking someone where they see themselves in five years, many people often say, “Well, I hope to be working here.” To me, that just shows the person has no legitimate plan and is trying to say whatever necessary to make an impression with the employer. However, an answer like this really does the opposite: it shows a lack of creativity, planning, and foresight. So, the next time an interviewer asks you where you see yourself in five years, make sure you have an answer. The answer does NOT have to be perfect nor does it need to be the “ideal” answer for a particular employer. However, make sure you take some time to think about where you want to be in five years. Then, develop the answer that IS ideal. Ideal for you.