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What are your career goals? Tips for answering effectively in interviews
1. Companies may not like hiring someone for just a year.
2. Personal goals can also impress interviewers.
3. Small goals often can outshine big ones.
Your response to this question depends on your position applying for; the career advancement it brings, the company's plans with you, and the type of job you'll be doing. Consider the following factors to prepare well for the question 'What are your career goals?'
Employers often inquire about your career goals in interviews.
1. Companies don't like hiring someone for a year
Unless you're applying for a temporary or seasonal position, typically, companies want to hire you for the long term. Recruitment is costly, and they don't want to repeat the entire process just because new hires leave after three months.
Avoid answers like: One day I want to start my own business; I want to go abroad to change my current life... Even if you plan to start a business or go abroad, don't reveal your plans in the interview.
You should respond that you aim to have a successful career in an international company (like this one), and develop both yourself and the job. Emphasize that you want to be part of a successful organization, playing a significant role in it.
2. Personal goals can also impress the interviewer
Not every job offers opportunities for advancement or significant change. If you apply for a job as a secretary, receptionist... but talk about ambitious goals within 5 years, it will be a mistake because there may not be any higher positions available in the company for you.
Personal goals would be a better choice in this case, and goals that demonstrate your determination should be considered. You can say that you care about social issues and family, or about your own health.
For example: My biggest goal is to lose 10 kg in 12 months. I've been overweight for a while, and I understand it limits me in my work. I really want to become more balanced and healthier.
3. Small goals can often defeat big goals
Sometimes, talking about small goals is more effective than long-term goals.
Some people feel happy when signing a new contract, celebrating becoming a CEO, a professional athlete, or a rock star. On the other hand, some find happiness in their simple lives, and all they want is a good job, make money, and enjoy life.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with such thinking, and many recruiters will appreciate that honest answer.
Example: I just want to have a good job, a job I enjoy, and be happy in life; my goal is to become a good colleague and employee, earn a decent salary to support my family and loved ones.
Show that you are responsible and goal-oriented in both work and life, you don't necessarily have to talk about big dreams to impress recruiters in job interviews.
If possible, you should talk about their business and what they want to achieve. Try to persuade that they can trust you for a long time, that you don't have plans to leave the job soon.
To have good career directions for your life, you can download the Career Choice app here for advice and choose the most suitable profession for yourself.
