eNewsHound

One of the questions many people ask of themselves, and of others, is where do you see yourself next year, or in the next five years.  For many in the process of a job interview, this is a question that can throw them off balance.  Business training reveals that it is a great question to ask of someone when you are looking for insight into that individuals skills of communication, and into their own self awareness.  When the question is referring to one’s own personal life, and not specifically for the job the person is interviewing, the answer reveals more than one may think.

If one candidate for the job answers the question about long term goals, and how they plan to achieve, stating that in five years they specifically want to be advanced to the position of manager, working with a qualified team, this is a very specific and may be seen as a narrow response.  One that could indicate a lack of flexibility.  However, should one state that they have been incredibly busy with the goals of the company that they haven’t had time to focus on their own, this may demonstrate a great work ethic but does not demonstrate a skill in planning or vision for the future.

And again, should one have the aspirations of starting their own company, to state this in the interview process, while demonstrating a strong desire to succeed, may give the prospective employer the idea that one will not be sticking around too long.  Executive training courses reveal that the answer to this seemingly easy and simple question, is often very hard to communicate.  Take a moment to really think about what you want, and focus on setting and achieving short term goals.

Focus on the needs of your prospective employer and their company.  Many times they really need someone organized and who can show the ability to to reach those short term goals.  Consider the times when your organized planning has led to positive results.  Everyone will have different things in life that are important to them, but by focusing on the immediate interview, and by being focused on the goals of the company, you will have a better chance to present your answer in an organized way, and will set you headed in the right direction.