Episode 119 – Tips on Answering Interview Questions About Short- and Long-Term Goals

I am frequently asked, “How do I answer the interview question, ‘What are your short- and long-term goals?’ when I’m not sure what I want to do for a career in business right now?” Over the past few years, we’ve written a couple of blog posts on this topic.  One of the comprehensive posts was “Tips on Answering ‘What Are Your Short and Long Term Goals?'” in May of 2015.  I encourage you to read this particular post and listen to the podcast where I expound on why recruiters ask this questions and how to approach the answer to make an impact. In the podcast, I demystify this question and cover: The recruiter’s real question or question behind the question is, “What are your short- and long-term goals because I want to know what you want to do. And, I want to know if you can achieve those goals in my organization and be happy.  Are we the right match for one another?”  Tips on how to balance being specific with your goals but not so specific that you rule yourself out because a particular goal is not attainable in their organization. How to demonstrate interest by explaining how your goals will  benefit the company versus making self-serving statements that do not make an impact. How to connect your goals with the open position for which the recruiter is interviewing. You can also learn more about answering this question in PCS to Corporate America, 4th Ed. pages 179-180. I enjoy doing podcasts on interviewing tips.  I like making interviewing simple and reducing the stress it creates on JMOs.  I hope you enjoy the podcast and to get the most benefit out of it. Please remember, my tips are my words and guidance.  Recruiters do not want to hire me, they want to hire you.  So, be you, and use the guidance but make it your own.   Find your own interview voice. To learn more about turning your JMO leadership skills into a successful transition and business success with Cameron-Brooks, visit our website and check out PCS to Corporate America. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Joel Junker