“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” is one of the most common questions asked during job interviews. To help you ace it, we’ve put together a list of dos and don’ts for answering this question, as well as some examples of good answers.
Why do interviewers ask “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
Interviewers ask this question because it gives them insight into what motivates you, your future plans, and what role their company plays in those plans.
Here’s what employers are looking for in your answer:
- If you plan on staying with the company long-term
- If you’re ambitious
- If you’re passionate about the job or plan on quitting as soon as you find a job in your preferred field
- If you have a realistic idea of what it’ll take to reach your career goals
Keep this in mind and have a thoughtful response ready.
How to answer “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
Here are some do’s and don’ts for answering when someone asks you where you see yourself in five years:
Do: Be clear
Focus on the skills you’d like to develop in the next few years and how this position will help you achieve that goal.
Do: Set realistic goals
Setting achievable goals shows employers that you have a clear idea of what you’ll need to do to advance your career, and within the company. For example, if a particular certification is required to advance in your field, mention that you plan on taking a course to get certified.
Do: Align your answer with the company’s goals
For example, if the company is planning on expanding into new markets, explain that you’d like to take on a leading role in implementing those plans. This demonstrates initiative and that you understand the company’s vision.
@resumegenius “Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years” is a common interview question many employers ask. Through this question, hiring managers can find out more about whether or not you’re a good fit for the role. Here are some tips and examples on how you can answer this slightly tricky interview question. #interviewquestions #interviews #interviewprep #jobsearching ♬ original sound – Resume Genius | Career Tips
Don’t: Exaggerate
If you’re applying for an entry level position, don’t say that you see yourself running the company in a few years. It makes you come across as unaware of the amount of hard work it takes to move up within a company (and it’s uprofessional).
Don’t: Say you have no plan
Few people have their careers planned out in detail, but don’t tell the interviewer that you have no idea where you’ll be in 5 years.
Don’t: Say you’ll leave the company
Employers understand that you probably won’t stay with the company for the rest of your career, but make think think you’ll leave as soon as you receive a more attractive offer. Instead, emphasize your interest in the position and explain how it fits into your overall career plan.
Don’t: Focus on goals unrelated to your career in this field
Stick to goals that relate directly to your career to improve your chances of getting a callback.
Example answers for three common jobs
Here are some industry-specific “Where do you see yourself in 5 years” sample answers to show you how to answer and how not to answer this question:
Accounting
Good example
I’m always looking for new challenges, so during the coming 5 years I would like to acquire my CPA license. This will allow me to take on more diverse tasks that require extensive knowledge of accounting principles and a highly specialized skill set.
Bad example
In 5 years I see myself becoming better at my job.
Administrative assistant
Good example
I really enjoy problem solving and dealing with logistical matters so I’d like that to be a bigger part of my job. In 5 years, I expect to have acquired the experience necessary to become an effective executive assistant.
Bad example
I don’t really have a plan for the next five years, but I don’t want to still be stuck in an administrative assistant role.
Customer service
Good example
I love working with people, so customer service is a great fit for me. My goal for the next five years is to improve my leadership skills and transition into a managerial role that allows me to use my problem solving skills to develop better strategies for improving customers’ experience.
Bad example
In 5 years I’d like to become a manager because I want to make more money.
Other interview resources
Once you’ve prepared the perfect response to “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” be sure to round out your interview prep by learning the best way to answer other questions you’re likely to be asked:
About the Author
Nathan Soto is dedicated to providing practical guidance to job seekers, especially people with nonlinear career paths.
Nathan graduated from the University of Nevada with a double B.A. in French and Music. His articles and career advice have been featured on multiple platforms, offering insights into resume writing, interview preparation, and personal branding.
