It’s one of the most common (though not the most effective) interview questions employers ask – “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” – but many South Florida job candidates aren’t quite sure how to best answer it. You don’t want to sound uncertain or like you lack motivation. But at the same time, you don’t want to come off as too sure of yourself or cocky. Plus, who really know where they’ll be in 5 years? Unexpected changes, from a relocated spouse to advances in technology, could either put a wrench in your plans, or boost them.
But the best way to answer this question is to be honest. That said, a simple “I don’t know” isn’t enough because what the job interviewer is really trying to understand is whether you’re ambitious and goal-oriented. They’re also trying to get a better sense of whether you’d be a good fit for the organization and the job opening. For instance, if the company doesn’t offer a lot of room for growth, and you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder and advance your career, then they may not be the best fit for you. Again, that’s why being honest about your intentions is important.
Here’s an example of what to say to help jump-start your thinking:
“While I don’t have a specific plan in place, I do know that I’m highly motivated and open to new opportunities. I’m eager to prove myself and hope that my hard work and skill set will put me on a path where I can make a positive contribution to my future employer.”
If you do have a plan in mind, you may want to get more specific by letting the employer know how you will go about advancing your career. For instance, do you plan on obtaining an advanced degree in your field or enrolling in a continuing education program? If that’s the case, then let the interviewer know.
And if you’d like some more help preparing for a job interview, or finding a job in South Florida that’s a great fit for you, please contact Future Force Personnel.