Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years’ Time?

As interview questions go, “Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?” has become a standard in some quarters. It’s a template question, particularly for entry-level jobs. We’re all supposed to have a response for that one.

Apparently, it’s an insight into your ambition. We all prep for it. And your response can make or break your chances with corporate titans the world over.

Well, imagine being a caterer, pilot or hotelier and being asked that question back in 2015? Chances are you would have been very wide of the mark with your career expectations right now. And to think you spent a whole day prepping for that answer.

The thing is life doesn’t work that way. You may have your career defined, plans refined, and goals aligned, but our existence has a funny habit of banging out a different tune. It always will do. COVID-19 has proved that.

Does that mean the question is pointless? Possibly and no.

Possibly, if it’s taken seriously. That is, if you view it as a projection of where you expect to be in life. That would be silly. Let’s be honest, you may think you have total control of your path in life, but you don’t. The alternative answer – no, if it simply reflects intention and direction. It’s a way of acting purposefully. And we all need a bit of that mindset. That’s healthy.

So don’t get wedded to the outcome. Career conditions change. Get down and dirty with the process. The process of having the right habits, the right standards and the right beliefs. Goals are useful, but process and systems can make all the difference in the world.

So where do you see yourself in five years’ time?