Careers advice

Answering the “where do you see yourself in 5 years?” question

Let’s make a plan for talking about your plan.

What you'll learn:

Why do employers ask the “where do you see yourself in five years” question?

Your future work plans need to be realistic.

So, what should you say (or not say)?

1. Have a plan to talk about

2. Be realistic

Be confident when talking about your career plan.

3. Don’t show a lack of confidence

4. Don’t joke about taking their job

Other articles you might like

A woman smiling facing a woman and a man in a cafe.

Careers advice | 4 min read

Answering the 'tell me about yourself' interview question (with examples)

Think of this as your personal elevator pitch.

Three women in a meeting.

Careers advice | 7 min read

Most common NZ job interview questions (with answers)

You can't predict everything the job interviewer will ask, but that doesn't mean you have to go in clueless.

Things you shouldn't say in a job interview

Careers advice | 3 min read

What you should never say in a job interview

Don’t say these things.

© 2026 Trade Me Limited