During an interview, you may be asked the question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

Here’s how to answer:

Include the company you’re interviewing with

Part of the reason why employers ask this question is to assess whether the candidate intends to stay with the company in the long-term. While you may not necessarily know the answer yourself, it’s important to show you are committed to the organization and its values. As a result, you’ll want to do your research! Being able to explain how you can help make their goals a reality as you grow in your career can help you stand out as a top candidate. Conversely, making it seem like this job is a stepping stone to something better can land your application in the “no” pile.

Know the role

When an interviewer asks “where do you see yourself in five years,” they’re trying to assess a couple of things, including whether or not you have a complete understanding of the position and where it could lead you. To help them see this, talk about how the responsibilities of the role you are interviewing for can help you reach your major career goals. For example, if the position requires you to take on more leadership responsibilities, discuss how you think the demands of the position will help you achieve your goals of transitioning into a management role.

Emphasize growth

If you’re asked “where do you see yourself in five years,” be prepared to give a clear response as to how you see yourself succeeding in your line of work. One of the best ways to answer this question is by talking to them about how your industry is also set to evolve over that five-year period. It’s impressive to talk about how you can jump into a role and succeed immediately, but it’s even more impressive to show how you plan to sustain that success as the industry transforms. By talking about how you anticipate your field to evolve over a five-year period, it will demonstrate to an interviewer that you’re truly invested in your industry and its future!

Be honest

Interviewers have heard it all, especially the rehashed and well-rehearsed clichés. Try to avoid generic answers and be honest. Sometimes, a less conventional answer can be much more effective than a typical “safe” one.  It’s okay to admit that you aren’t sure where you’ll be in the future as long as you have a clear and confident idea of what you’re striving for. It’s not okay, and often less believable, to tell your employer that you plan on accruing a number of responsibilities you aren’t qualified for or interested in.