How to Answer, "What Are Your Goals for the Future?" In The Job Interview

One of the most exciting things during the job search process is landing the job interview. After sending applications and resumes, the moment you’ve been waiting for finally comes—congratulations! You made it to the next step in the process and are gearing up for an interview. 

There are dozens of topics that flood our minds when it comes to interviews. What should I wear, what questions will they ask me, will my internet be strong enough for a virtual interview? Preparing and revising technical questions is pretty straightforward, while non-technical questions make us think more broadly and go beyond direct answers. 

I’ve had experience being an interviewer and interviewee and a question that I always come across is “What Are Your Goals for the Future”.

Sometimes this is the most difficult question in the interview. Before you start panicking and thinking of a million different responses it’s good to take a deep breath and really think about a response.

“Goals for the future” - This can revolve around finances, mental and physical health, or even career advancement. Nonetheless, it is important to focus on the question and what it truly means. 

A lot of people take on the SMART approach when it comes to setting goals. Here is what that means.

S: Specific 

• Making sure the goals is clear and defined
• What is the significance, who are the stakeholders, when will these goals achieve
• “I want to grow my leadership skills by speaking up and presenting at more meetings.”

M: Measureable

• Making sure there is a guide to tracking progress and measuring success
• How do I determine when the goal is achieved? What indicators will I use?
• “I will speak for at least 10 minutes each meeting and I will attend leadership panels weekly.”

A: Achievable 

• Do I have the tools and resources to achieve this goal
• Is this goal realistic? Do I have the skills to achieve this goal?
• “I will dedicate two hours each week to training sessions and practice leadership techniques”

R: Relevant 

• These goals impact your future and your goals
• How does this goal contribute to your long-term goals and objectives?
• “Improving my leadership skills aligns with my goal of becoming a team leader.”

T: Time 

• Ensure there is a deadline and time frame for these goals
• What is the focus of the goal? What milestones can you set along the way?, 
• “I plan to accomplish this by Q2, with regular monthly reviews to track progress”

Now that you have a better idea of SMART goals you can now start drafting responses and prepare yourself for the question, “What are your goals for the future?”.