The Daily Machete: INTERVIEWING: How NOT to Describe Your 5 Year Plan (Supplemental)

The Daily Machete

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The Daily Machete: INTERVIEWING: How NOT to Describe Your 5 Year Plan (Supplemental)

INTERVIEWING: How NOT to Describe Your 5 Year Plan (Supplemental)

Posted by Mike Thomas at 10/9/2008 9:32 AM and is filed under INTERVIEWING

We looked at three winning answers to "Where do you see yourself in five years?" in an earlier post today. Now, let's take a look at three losing answers - answers that will ensure that you won't be hired or even called back in for another interview:

"I want your job." It’s cliché. And, unless you're interviewing for an HR position or to be a recruiter, then it'll smack of false bravado. That, and the interviewer might feel threatened.

"My business should be profitable by then." Oh? You're starting a business? Then you'll be leaving us soon and we'll have to spend the time and resources to hire your replacement soon? Helpful hint: know what not to reveal.

"I haven't really thought about it" or "I tend to play things by ear." This will show that you're not serious about your career. It may also indicate that you're not organized enough for them. Besides - an unanalyzed life is a life not worth living.