How Can I Talk About My Future Plans for a Job Interview?

Before blurting out an answer, consider the reasons why employers commonly ask about future plans in a job interview. Typically, the goal is to find potential superstars and to weed out applicants who aren’t likely to stick around. Recruiting and retaining talent is time consuming and costly — hiring managers look bad if the company suffers from high turnover. Answer this question by emphasizing your loyalty, enthusiasm for the current opening, and your interest in growth opportunities within the company.

Focus on the Present

When talking about future goals, show that you are ambitious and career oriented, but without giving the impression that this job is only a steppingstone. Know the career ladder at the company so that you don’t make the mistake of identifying a management position you’d like to attain within five years, if the company has that position pegged as an unrealistic goal for a new hire. Don’t try to be funny by saying that you plan on being the interviewer’s boss someday. Share future interests, but bring the conversation back to why you want the job at hand.

Example:

I am open to whatever opportunities may arise in the future, such as qualifying for the management training program that the company offers top notch performers. Being a recent college graduate, I know I still have much to learn, which is why I am so excited about this particular job and being part of an innovative team.

Communicate Flexibility

Employers realize that nobody can foretell the future, so don’t fret if you are unsure of your plans for the weekend, let alone down the road. When talking about future plans, sound flexible and adaptable rather than indecisive. If you’re like most people, you have a sense of what you want in life, so talk about your plans and dreams in general terms. Explain that you are open to remaining with the company indefinitely if you feel challenged and rewarded.

Example:

I am very open to whatever opportunities the future may hold, especially within this company. I pride myself in being flexible and adaptable. I think the best way of planning for the future is to make the most of the present. I applied for this job because it is a perfect fit with my interests and skill set.

Show Motivation

Being asked to talk about your future goals is a great segue into letting the employer know that you are ambitious and career oriented. Top performers have passion and goals. If you are hired, the employer may tap you for additional duties, knowing that you are eager to learn and grow in the profession. When talking about your future plans, share that you are a self-starter who intends to make the most of every opportunity you are offered.

Example:

In five years, I hope to be on a career path that will lead to a supervisory position, with a long-range goal of eventually moving into upper management. I also plan to finish my online degree in business administration within two years. Starting out in this exciting, fast-paced, customer service job would be a great way for me to learn about the organization.

 Add Value

Don’t miss an opportunity to talk about what you can do for the company when sharing your plan for the future. Emphasize how your desire to learn and apply your skills will support the goals of the organization. Research where the company is heading, and think of ways that you can contribute to the company, as you gain knowledge and experience.

Example:

My future plans include securing a position as a social media strategist. I know the company is interested in reaching a younger clientele, and I have the skills to help with the social media part of the new ad campaign, if hired for the advertising assistant job that is available.