Where do you see yourself in three to five years?
Answers
This question is believed to be super daunting and mind-numbing, but keep in mind, your recruiters are not even interested about your actual plans. They just want to see how well you reply to impromptu questions. Interviewers would like to assess you on your confidence, aspirations and career outlook.
Most jobs require training and no employer would like to invest time and money on someone who is planning to leave. Companies prefer hiring people who are genuinely enthusiastic about the job and look like prospective employees to the business.
An answer to this question is not known even by the recruiters. Be realistic while replying to this question. You can say something like this –
“I look forward to learn new skills and improve my knowledge to advance my career. In five years from now, I see myself as a knowledgeable professional having an in-depth knowledge of the company and the industry.”
Be Convincing:
It is always a good idea to frame the answer in a way that the interviewer is convinced that he is meeting the right person for the related job. You can say –
“I am positive and determined towards achieving mine as well as the company’s goals. I will be committed and dedicated to my profession and deliver the best, while learning from the best. Having said that, I see myself in a managerial role and demonstrating my leadership capabilities.”
Don’t be Overconfident or Negative:
Saying “I don’t know” would be the worst thing. Even if you cannot come up with an answer at the moment, take a few seconds to think about it and think how you would have progressed over five years.
Never say – “I plan to be the CEO of the company. My friends say I am the best, and I should not settle for anything less than the best.” It sounds immature and unprofessional.
Formulate an answer which sounds genuine and natural. Your hiring managers don’t want you to lie, manipulate, or give an off-the-wall answer. So go forward, deliver a better answer. This will not only impress your interviewer but will also show that you are prepared and determined to get this job.