Where do you see yourself in five years? Why is it relevant for an interview question, and how should one answer this question honestly without sounding too ambitious nor too humble?

we need to ensure that we are mentoring/up-skilling people under us to take our role.

  Hr Classes   Apr 20, 2024   170  Add to Reading List

Having a roadmap or a plan always helps. If you are clueless about where you want to go, it might create a negative impression. Many times, I have seen people open to work on anything, as far as they are getting a job. However, sometimes this backfires. But, at the same time, it also depends on your current role and experience. As a fresher, this demonstrates flexibility and adaptability.

I would recommend to answer this question in the following way:

  • Talk about the role that you want to play in the long run. Designations don’t matter, instead, focus on the responsibilities you would like to take up.
  • Highlight the skills you have today, and what are the skills you will have to gain to reach that position. It can be Technical skills, Soft skills, Process related skills, etc.
  • Share the information on how you plan to achieve the skills. It can be a certification, a higher education program (Executive or full-time), etc.
  • When we move up, we need to ensure that we are mentoring/up-skilling people under us to take our role. Share details about how you are investing in people and if you have already identified anyone to replace you. This will showcase your coaching skills, and also that you focus on people empowerment.
  • Last but not least, you should have clear milestones defined with shorter durations. These milestones will help you assess your progress and will keep you focused.