Answering "How do you see yourself in 5 years?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interview question "How do you see yourself in 5 years?" Participants share their discomfort with the question, explore its implications for career aspirations, and suggest ways to approach it during interviews.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses discomfort with the question, indicating uncertainty about how to respond.
  • Another participant suggests that the question aims to gauge aspirations and commitment to a career path, implying that vague answers may reflect a lack of dedication.
  • Examples of "bad answers" are provided, including responses that suggest a lack of ambition or commitment.
  • Conversely, "good answers" are proposed, focusing on making an impact in the industry and having clear career goals.
  • A participant notes the importance of being knowledgeable about the institution and preparing questions for the interviewers.
  • Another contribution highlights that the question helps interviewers assess alignment between the candidate's goals and the company's intentions, as well as personality fit.
  • Suggestions for acceptable answers in temporary positions are mentioned, emphasizing the value of gaining experience and skills.
  • Participants propose questions candidates might ask employers to better understand the company's future and opportunities for advancement.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on how to approach the question, with some advocating for specific strategies while others highlight the discomfort and uncertainty surrounding it. No consensus is reached on a single best approach.

Contextual Notes

Some responses depend on individual circumstances, such as the type of position being applied for, which may influence how candidates should frame their answers.

Who May Find This Useful

Job seekers preparing for interviews, particularly those facing challenging questions about career aspirations.

Oxygenne
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during the interview at the question "How do you see you in the next 5 years?"
I just do not feel comfortable with this question as i do not know what to answer.
Thank you!
 
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They want to know if you have aspirations, if you have a plan for your career, or if you're just drifting. Someone who doesn't know where they'll be in five years is likely to not be committed to their job as they'll likely change their mind.

Bad answers:
"I don't know."
"I plan to move on to something better."
"I'll do this to pay the bills, then I'm gonig to buy a surf board and hit the beaches."
"I hope to have your job."

Good answers:
"I want to be making change in my industry."
"I plan to be [doing something important in my industry]."

They want to hear that you're
a] interested, and
b] knowedgeable
about your chosen profession.
 
Thank you!
 
This is a really hard question.

What I would probably suggest is look at this article, it may help you with your probelm: http://nicolewilliams.com/getahead/the-toughest-interview-questions

Your question is number five/at the bottom of the page.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Make sure you are knowledgeable about the institution you are applying to and have ready some questions to ask them.
 
Last edited:
The question is meant to for your interviewers to assess whether or not your goals are consistent with their intentions for the position. It also allows them to assess your personality and character a little, to make a judgement on whether or not you will fit in with current personnel.

For a temporarary position for example, it might be perfectly acceptable to give an answer along the lines of just wanting to earn some money for a short period of time, while learning about that particular industry or field. Even a minimum wage retail summer position can allow you to develop communication and basic business skills.

Equally valid questions for you to ask your potential employer along these lines are:
- Where you see this company in five years?
- What goals do you hope to accomplish with the person in this position?
- What kind of advancement can I expect to see over a five year period?
- What skills will I learn/develop in this position?
 

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