How to Answer: Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

Answers to "Where do you see yourself in five years?"

1. Managing a department.

In five years I would like to have a better understanding of how to lead a team. I believe that this position will give me the opportunity to learn management skills through training and taking on more leadership roles until I can confidently manage a department.

This answer shows an interest in gaining more experience through your time at the company and using your skills to continue working there in a more senior capacity.

2. Leading new projects.

This company has always been at the forefront of industry-defining projects, and in five years I would like to become more involved in research, perhaps even bringing new projects to the company. So many industry leaders choose to work here, and I would love to learn from them.

In this answer, the candidate shows knowledge of and interest in the work that the company does and indicates that they would like to contribute to the company's reputation for industry-leading projects. The candidate also shows a willingness to learn from others.

3. Having completed training and earned a Master's degree.

In five years I would like to have completed any necessary training programs for my role, and broadened my skill set through online learning or company-recommended programs. This will allow me to become involved in more projects that the company undertakes.

This answer reflects a desire to develop your skills so that you can be of better use to the company. It reassures the company that their investment in your training will be returned.

4. With proficiency in Photoshop and social media management.

At present, I have a good understanding of social media and how to use its algorithms, but I would like to complete more formal training on it so that I can manage platforms more confidently. I would also like to become proficient in Photoshop so that I can create social media graphics myself. I think this would streamline the content creation process.

This answer reflects a desire to learn skills specific to the role as well as skills that will allow you to take on more responsibilities. It shows an interest in becoming more valuable to the company and taking initiative to be more efficient.

5. As an industry expert.

This position offers the opportunity to work with several departments and learn various new skills that I have not been exposed to before. I hope to learn more about the company this way, as I will likely be working with different individuals on a range of projects. In five years I would like to be considered an expert on our products and be able to make suggestions that drive the company forward.

This answer shows a desire to gain new skills and learn more about the company itself. By mentioning this, it shows that you are interested in developing the company further in a long-term capacity.