Help answering "where do you look to be 5 years from now" interview question for banking?

Question

Interviewing with Wells Fargo and I'm a new college grad, how should I answer this?

Answer 1

In terms of the question to that, think through, as the firm is looking to see whether you have analytical skill, motivation to succeed, determination and passion to be part of their family.

I have typically addressed the situation by stating that when I join the organization, I am hoping to be a very valuable employee through the skillset that I provide to your organization. Based on that, I am hoping that the firm will offer mentorship/partnership through different managers to grow my career within your firm.

I am not looking to specialize on one task, rather learn a variety tasks that can be rewarding for your firm and my career.

The key factor to remember is that you want to show the firm that you are eager to learn, take on risks, take on challenges and not afraid to ask for more, more, more. Also that you will be loyal to them.

Answer 2

I know the question, and believe it or not, the best answer is simply "I have only set my sights out about two years or so." The reason is that the business world is so volitile these days, and until you have actually STARTED your career, you can't possible know where it may lead. Any speculation on your part could appear as if you are grandiose, looking for the interviewer's job, or worse - don't have a clue about what you are doing.

You say that you're only looking two years out because you're eager to learn, would welcome the opportunity to learn from the Wells Fargo "team," and have a great deal of respect for their fine institution. In other words, if you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit.

Answer 3

Well, you always want to have a strong confidence that you will advance in any position. Also, you don't want them to think you are being an asshole about it either. You could non-chalantly say "I plan on having your job of interviewing people"...which might offend them, or scare them, or piss them off. Or you could say something like "I plan to be in a top management position at this bank" giving a sense of security letting them know you are looking for long term and of knowing what you want. Most places want someone for the long term, so make sure they know you will stay and you will be seeking upper-level advancement and will pursue it diligently.