How to Respond when Asked: What Goals Have You Set for Yourself?

Answer 1

Sitting face-to-face with an interviewer can be nerve wracking and most individuals find themselves with sweaty palms as they await the next question. What you must consider is that these questions are also going to help you decide whether or not you wish to work for the company, too. It is not just about whether you would be a good fit for the company, but it is also about whether the company is a good fit for you. Therefore, when you are asked what goals you have set for yourself, be honest.

The one thing you must realize, however, is when they ask what goals you have, they are not talking about your personal life. They do not want to hear that you want to buy a home within a few years or that you want to get married. What they are looking for is the verification that you know how to set career goals and, more importantly, that you are determined to achieve them.

You do have to be honest with the interviewer, but you also want to use this question for self-promotion. If for example, you are applying for a entry-level position in the company and you have never held a management position before, let them know that your ultimate goal is management. When you set higher goals for yourself and are able to communicate them during the interview, it will portray that you are ambitious and very hardworking.

The one thing you do have to be careful is overselling your goals. While every manager wants ambitious employees, they do not want to hear that an employee will do anything to achieve their goals. All this will do is mislead them into believing that you may not be able to be trusted and you may eventually end up going after their own job.

While you may be apprehensive about your interview, take the time to prepare. The best way is to have someone else play the interviewer and ask you what goals you have set for yourself. Practice your answer until you are confident, but be very careful that when you are in your interview it does not come across as too rehearsed.

Answer 2

When asked about your goals, it's important to be specific and relevant to the job or situation. Focus on short-term and long-term goals that are aligned with the position you are applying for, and demonstrate your motivation, ambition, and commitment to growth and development. Tailor your response to show how achieving these goals will benefit both you and the organization.