Where do you see yourself in five years?
This question commonly is used to assess your commitment to the role you are applying to. Your answer will determine if this is the right job for you or if it's the right job for right now. For this position, any major goal in any company with a track record for success will have a five-year business plan. To be a serious contender for this position, you should have a five-year plan for your career. Your answer will also inform the interviewer of how your goals align with the goals of their company.
Work out your five-year business plan. Explain how the position you are applying for fits into that plan. Map out where you hope it will take you. Remember, they're not asking you to predict the future. This is your vision and nothing more.
"I created my first five-year career plan three years ago. I revise it every six months, building off the original, tracking my progress, and adjusting accordingly to keep my goals attainable. This point in my career marks a major milestone for me. I've spent the last three years building my experience and skill set. If I am hired for this position, it would offer me the opportunity to learn and grow with this company."
Don't say, "I hate change. So, hopefully, I'd still be working for you in five years." It's easy to slip up on your choice of words. Take care not to mistakingly seem presumptuous in any of your answers, no matter how well the interview is going. Be humble, gracious, and grateful for the opportunity to sit and talk with them.
