How to answer the typical question, where do you see yourself in 5 years? in a job interview

Meditate on your possible answers and keep in mind the company you are targeting

• Prepare possible answers in advance and make them according to what you want to convey.
• We give you a few tips that you should keep in mind when you are going to answer questions related to your professional goals.
• First of all, prioritize personal goals and the profile of the company to which you are applying for employment.

Job interviews are based on  questions and answers that usually go from the professional level, to more personal details or more related to the vision and objectives of the candidates . 

You must keep in mind that when you respond to an offer of employment where you meet all the professional requirements there are probably many more professionals who meet them. 

The recruiters will evaluate this information when deciding and giving the job, but in their assessment they will also include more personal details that they will obtain through the job interview. 

The important thing about this type of question is knowing how to respond with confidence, frankness and not thinking about what you think the interviewer wants to hear. 

Above all, be clear about the purpose of this question to get a job: they want to know about your professional goals and aspirations and, especially, if they  fit with the company's philosophy . 

Which answers are the most accurate?

It is not a matter of showing a prediction of the future, nor of showing a comprehensive plan to achieve our objectives. The best thing is to let you see that you are ambitious, in its right measure, and  your desire to excel. 

It is best to start by commenting on how this job opportunity you request would allow you to evolve in your professional and personal growth , in a general and realistic way. 

Almost everyone usually expresses in their response their desire to ascend and reach a position of responsibility. However, if the job interview is done in a small company where the recruiter is the manager and limited promotion, your answer may be a disservice. 

Therefore, start by taking into account the size of the company , the possibilities it can offer you and if they fit into your corporate policy.

Do not fall into the error of believing that the recruiter seeks to demonstrate a blind and faithful commitment to the company, and that you see the rest of your days with them and in your job. That you are not yet part of the company but you know that is where you want to retire, it can be something disturbing and sound false. 

Think that the new socio-economic context is changing the rigidity of jobs and forms of business organization, so it is best that you formulate your answers in relation to your goals , without the need to project them in the company. 

You should also take into account the professional experience with which you count and use it to your advantage in the response. If you are a junior profile, you must bet on your desire to learn, to grow with the company and to contribute to its success, which, therefore, will entail yours as well. 

If you already have years of experience, focus on talking about the possibilities of developing new skills, while contributing what you already know, and accepting challenges that demonstrate your ability to become responsible. 

Therefore, there is no single valid solution and, as some recruiting experts say  , any response that reflects some professional ambition and moves away from insecurity and conformism is worthwhile .