"Where do you see yourself in 5 years / 10 years?" This question guarantees to draw groans from my learners. The consternation is understandable. At the start of our careers, some of us have yet to embark on a deep self-reflection of life direction (cue - no time like the present!) beyond the foundational motivations of paying the bills and building a savings nest-egg. Thus, put on the spot, an impulse is to display ambition and state a position we will achieve. Some temper down, offering to work hard and be grateful for any advancement opportunity.

What is the Question About?

There are a few reasons the interviewer asks this question. Let us appreciate what they are and rise to the challenge:

·        Clearly, this question is a stressor that allows the interviewer to see how you act under pressure

·        Handled well, it shows your ability to plan, your level of drive and initiative; are you one to sit and let things happen to you or do you take charge of your future by looking for and creating opportunities

·        The interviewer gains an insight into your values, personality and character - there is no right or wrong to this, but it is helpful to assess whether these traits match the requirements of the job or even the culture of the organisation

·        Your ability to articulate these thoughts is a strong indicator of your communication skills

It's the Journey!

So, how will you respond?

Let us consider two distinct motivations that drive the responses.

The first is financial. Your gut response suggests, " .. in 10 years time, I see my salary at $xxxxx amount."

The second drives you to fulfill your highest capabilities in the company, " .. with my abilities, I will be promoted to the role of .. ," declaring the highest level of promotion you want to achieve.

These may be valid goals but unless they are balanced with details of professional development, you are not providing the interviewer with enough substance to assess.

Candidates often make the mistake of being too vague, ".. I just want to contribute and will accept any opportunities given .. " or unrealistic, " .. I will be the CEO in 5 years .."

Instead, consider mapping out the various milestones to your 10-year goal in connection with the growth of the company. Focus on the journey. Here are suggestions of elements you may elaborate on to mark your development targets:

·        Capabilities and acquiring new skills

·        Contribution to technical advancement, market growth, systems expansion, client satisfaction

·        Contribution to leadership and innovation - development of employees, productivity, research

For example:

"I will focus on mastering each stage of production so that I have complete exposure to our production capabilities and have a thorough knowledge of our product lines. I want to contribute to the continuing improvement of quality and productivity. I will seek opportunities for learning, formal and informal, to expand my knowledge and abilities at work.

Simultaneously, I will share my knowledge and experience with colleagues. I will like to train new hires, be their mentor. Also, I can contribute to the continuing development of training modules. 

I will be ready to apply myself in any capacity and especially find it meaningful to be involved in inter-deparmental projects that seek to expand the company's capabilities."

This response focuses on outlining the individual's journey in the organisation. Your own journey will of course reflect your aspirations, distinct from this example. Furthermore, there are different roles - technical, marketing, engineering, leadership and different industries.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

While financial and career progression are natural goals, the more compelling thoughts will highlight personal development and contribution to the growth of the company. Show this foresight to your interviewers as you chart out what you value. It is a better indicator of your potential and capabilities than stating an end goal without support of how you will get there.

How you articulate yourself in the process is always of great interest to the interviewer. If you can draw them in a compelling and honest story of yourself, you are in good position to go far.

Your answer does not have to be perfect as long as you are sincere. Allow for pauses, perhaps the interviewer has a comment. Remember to stay genuine in this engaging conversation with your interviewer.


This article first appeared on BLOGdll on https://munyeewrites.com