interview q - where do you see yourself in 5 years time
Discussion
So after being made redundant 2 weeks ago I have been out interviewing quite a bit, and for the fourth time I've just been told that I 'interviewed very well, skills are ok, but we don't think we can proceed with an offer because he said he'd like to take on a project management type role in about 5 years'
According to this experience apparently disclosing ambition is a terrible idea at interview, so what is the 'right' answer to this question?
I could understand wanting 5 year commitments if you're talking about ceo roles but these are straightforward developer jobs!
According to this experience apparently disclosing ambition is a terrible idea at interview, so what is the 'right' answer to this question?
I could understand wanting 5 year commitments if you're talking about ceo roles but these are straightforward developer jobs!
I always say I don't know 
Probably the most stupid question ever - Who knows WHERE they'll be in 5 years time - You could be dead!
I tend to count such questions against potential employers, but I guess they are trying to catch you out with a question that tests your commitment to the role. I guess saying you don't know suggests you're not just taking this job until something better comes along, so isn't actually that bad an answer...
My boss says most people he interviews tell him they want to be in management, but he thinks they think they should say this as most are totally unsuited to such a role!
M.
Probably the most stupid question ever - Who knows WHERE they'll be in 5 years time - You could be dead!
I tend to count such questions against potential employers, but I guess they are trying to catch you out with a question that tests your commitment to the role. I guess saying you don't know suggests you're not just taking this job until something better comes along, so isn't actually that bad an answer...
My boss says most people he interviews tell him they want to be in management, but he thinks they think they should say this as most are totally unsuited to such a role!
M.
Edited by marcosgt on Friday 10th February 09:00
I would suggest a good answer would be: "I want to continue to develop myself as an expert developer in this domain, once I have achieved this goal, backed up with the relevant qualifications and experience, I would consider how my skills could be best used to enhance to company, then proceed in that direction. I beleive that by working towards these objectives I would fullfil my career goals and bring value to the business at the same time."
Edited by Nick Grant on Friday 10th February 09:26
I ask this question sometimes. Answer I expect would depend on the role applied for. E.g. If the role was a team leader or similar position where the next step up would be management then I would expect the candidate to show ambition for that next step. If it was a techie role I was often just looking for a simple answer such as being regarded as a subject matter expert in their role. You don't want everyone to say they want to be a manager - who would do all the work ;-)
Cheers.. glad to see its regarded as not the best interview question generally. I think the route that Nick highlighted above is the route ill go down. I just want to avoid the situation where I get pushed towards the 'can only code, not talk to people' route as I don't think this is where I can make the most of my skills.
I ask this question sometimes. Answer I expect would depend on the role applied for. E.g. If the role was a team leader or similar position where the next step up would be management then I would expect the candidate to show ambition for that next step. If it was a techie role I was often just looking for a simple answer such as being regarded as a subject matter expert in their role. You don't want everyone to say they want to be a manager - who would do all the work ;-)
shouldbworking said:
I just want to avoid the situation where I get pushed towards the 'can only code, not talk to people' route as I don't think this is where I can make the most of my skills.
This is a great strength to talk about in the interview, a developer who is a good communicator is very valuble indeed. Talk this up with good examples 
Kudos said:
Viperzs said:
Exactly what I was going to suggest. Surely it shows determination and drive?
No, makes you appear a threat. They don't like threats!Gassing Station | Jobs & Employment Matters | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff