You will probably hear the question, “where do you see yourself in 5 years” at some point in your career? You might have many answers you can think of at the top of your head. Your honest answer might be as simple as “well, I need a job, and it pays well,” or maybe you plan to be the top dog at the company one day. While these might be true, they aren’t what employers are looking for. Don’t fret, though, because there is still away, to be honest, but give an appropriate answer.
Why do employers ask where do you want to be in 5 years?
- Are you going to stick around for five years?
If Covid-19 taught us anything, it’s that we never know what the future might hold, and plans can change at any given moment. However, employers are looking for your initial commitment to the company. It is very costly to hire and train new employees as well as employers invest lots of time into managing turnover. It is much more desirable to retain employees than re-train someone.
- Do your goals align with the position?
Not only do companies need employees who can do the job, but they also want to know if your goals align with the position and what they can offer you. If you are looking to get more certifications or furthering your education, many companies offer programs. If you are applying for a Website Writer position, but your goal is to be an aesthetician one day, you probably shouldn’t expect a job offer.
- Do you have drive and ambition?
Employers want to see that you have goals in mind and you are actively trying to achieve them. Anyone can have a goal for themselves, but your plan of action will make you stand out. Employers want to see that you have drive, which will translate into your job performance.
Tips to answering
- Consider what you would like your resume to look like in 5 years.
If you are entirely unsure of your future goals, take a look at your current resume. Now imagine the changes and additions you might like to see within each section. A good place to start is your skills section. Are there certain things you would like to work on and get better at? Are there any educational programs you hope to complete that this job could set you up for?
- Find connections between your career goals and the job description.
An excellent way to prepare your answer is to look over the job description. Pick out a couple of different skills or responsibilities that resonate with you and base your response around them. How can these skills help get you to where you want to go?
- Ask yourself how this company can prepare you.
Are there specific benefits this company offers, such as education programs or grants, to help you get closer to your goals? Examine what tasks and responsibilities are required for the job and how these will help build set you up for your future. Maybe there are particular projects any innovations you would like to pitch in the future. How can this job give you the foundation needed to take on more leadership roles?
- How can this job help develop your interests?
Any job you work is part of your career development and will help forge new interests. When asked why you want to leave your current job, answer how this job aligns with your current interests and where you want them to take you.
Examples 1
“In five years, I see myself with a much more expansive knowledge of coding languages, specifically JavaScript. I would like to see myself taking on more leadership roles in future projects dealing with coding. In past jobs, I have taken on roles in project management and would love to apply this experience in the future.”
Explanation: This response uses particular points from the job description (i.e. knowledge of coding language) and connects past experiences with future opportunities.
An alternative answer might look like this:
Example 2
“In the future, I would like to see myself working more closely and engaging with clients, which I see this company has lots of opportunities for. With my graphic design skills, I believe I can output quality work to retain current clients and continue building clientele. I am very excited for the opportunities this job has in store and believe they will support both my future goals and my contribution to the company.”
Explanation: This response bridges the gap between your goals and the job description, proving how your goals align with the position. Showing your ambition and drive demonstrates your long-term commitment to the company.
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