“What Are You Looking for in Terms of Career Development?”: Sample Answers

We all work hard and do our best to fulfil our ambitions since we all have goals and objectives. But if someone asks about our professional goals or ideal employment, we find ourselves at a loss for words. Sometimes, even though we are aware of our desires and dreams, we are unable to express them in words that are significant to us. You’ve come to the perfect place if you’re having trouble preparing for a wide range of interviews and getting stuck when the interviewer asks, “What are you looking for in terms of career development?” Continue reading to learn the best methods to respond and what blunders you should steer clear of when doing so.

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Also Read: How to Answer Common Interview Questions

Why Does the Interviewer Ask This Question?

We’re constantly surprised by interviews. Hiring managers ask us a range of questions about our academic and professional backgrounds during the interview. The interviewer may ask you questions about your professional goals and objectives in addition to prior experience. Generally speaking, the purpose of a question like “What are you looking for in terms of career development?” is to find out more about the objectives you have set for yourself and how they relate to those of the employer if you are recruited. Hiring managers want to know your long-term goals so they can decide if you are worth the cost they will spend on your hiring training. Inquiring about your professional growth objectives and aspirations also helps the interviewer get a feel of your direction in life, degree of dedication, and motivation.

Also Read: How to Answer, “What Type of Work Environment Do You Prefer?”

Tips to Answer “What are you looking for in terms of career development” Question

Here are the 5 proven expert tips to answer, “What are you looking for in terms of career development?”

1. Research: You should also have a solid grasp of the organisation and the position you are applying for in order to respond to this question appropriately. Get a sense of how the function fits into the overall picture by researching the company’s values, objectives, and possibilities for advancement. Think about how the job you would be performing in the position and the corporate culture fit with your own professional development objectives. 
2. Determine your long-term goals: It’s critical to have a firm grasp on your own long-term professional objectives before you can respond to this question. What goals do you have for your career, and what measures must you take to accomplish those goals? Consider your abilities, passions, and values as well as the kind of employment that would be most gratifying and rewarding for you.
3. Demonstrate zeal and determination: It’s critical to emphasise your drive for success and dedication to your professional development. Justify your interest in this particular position and how it aligns with your long-term professional objectives. Mention any relevant education or training you have earned, as well as any professional development opportunities you have previously taken advantage of. 
4. Show Passion for Learning: You must convey your enthusiasm for learning new things through your attitude and all of your communication. Be receptive to any chances for growth and learning that might present to you in your new position. This could entail acquiring new duties, developing new abilities, or seeking further education or training.  

Mistakes to Avoid While Answering this Question

Here are some of the important things that you should keep in mind while answering this question:

1. Be clear and concise when describing your objectives; being ambiguous or giving generic responses may give the impression that you lack preparation or are unsure about your life’s course. 
2. Don’t undervalue the purpose of doing research before submitting an application. 
3. Avoid underestimating the significance of aligning your goals with the company’s vision.
4. Avoid being excessively rigid and closed-minded. You could come out as unadaptable if you do this. 
5. Communicate effectively and clearly. Avoid using technical or jargon-filled language. 

Also Read: Star Method for Interview

Sample Answers for “What are You Looking for in Terms of Career Development”

Now that you have an idea of what is the purpose of asking the question, “What are you looking for in terms of career development”, let’s take a look at the best ways to answer them. Here are some of the sample answers:

Sample 1:

“For building a more equal and creative workplace, I think diversity and inclusion are crucial. I’m seeking for a firm that actively appreciates and promotes inclusiveness and diversity in all facets of its operations. I also want to work for a firm that appreciates and encourages continual learning and growth since I am constantly trying to learn and progress. This might include things like conferences, workshops, and courses for professional growth.“

Sample 2:

“I want to work for an organisation that encourages work-life balance. I think that maintaining a good work-life balance is crucial for both personal and professional development, thus I want to work for an organisation that values this balance and promotes it via its policies and procedures.“

Discuss your professional journey so far before letting them know your specific work aspirations. Explain how your present circumstances or prior experiences relate to the position. Justify your professional decision. Most importantly, speak with assurance and enthusiasm. 

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