“What Are You Looking For in Your Next Position?” Answers & Tips

June 28, 2022

When you are asked, “what are you looking for in your next position?” in an interview, the interviewer is really trying to find out a few things. They want to know if you have long-term career goals and if this position fits into those goals. They also want to know what you find important in a job and if this particular job meets those criteria. Finally, they may be trying to gauge your interest in the company and the position.

If you can answer this question successfully, you not only stand a chance of landing the role, but you could also be starting an excellent relationship with a new employer. Right from the start, they will know what you need to be supported and what you are looking to gain from working with them. The best employers will take this information on board and use it to help shape your career development plan.

Here are some tips on how to answer this question:

• Talk about what you want to do next, not what you don’t want to do. For example, saying that you are looking for a “challenging role with opportunities for growth” sounds a lot better than saying that you are looking to “get away from the mundane tasks that I’ve been doing for the past few years.”
• Be positive and enthusiastic. This is your chance to really sell yourself, so make sure that your tone is positive and upbeat.
• Don’t just list of a bunch of requirements. Yes, you need to state what you are looking for, but don’t just rattle off a list of things like “a salary of £35,000 per year, health benefits, and 4 weeks of vacation time.” Instead, focus on how this position can help you meet your long-term goals.
• Be specific. If there are skills and qualifications, you would like to achieve in your next role, mention them. If there are certain responsibilities that you would like to have, talk about them. The more specific you can be, the better.

Why do employers ask this question?

There are a few reasons employers ask this question. First, they want to see what you are lacking in your current role, as this will help them to understand why you are applying for the role on offer. It also helps them to see if you understand what role is available.

It also helps them to understand what you value in an employer and what they can do to support you. For example, if you are looking for an employer who will invest in your development, they will know that they need to provide training and development opportunities.

Finally, this question also allows employers to get a feel for your long-term goals. If you have ambitions to move up the career ladder, they will know that they need to offer you a role with progression opportunities. If you are happy to stay in the same position for the foreseeable future, they will know that they don’t need to worry about investing too much time and resources in your development.

When answering this question, it is important to remember that the focus should be on the future. This is not the time to dwell on the past or list off all of the things you don’t like about your current role. Keep things positive and forward-thinking.

Example answers to this question

When you’re looking for your next position, it’s important to keep in mind what you want to gain from the role.

• Do you want to challenge yourself?
• Learn new things?
• Be creative?
• Find a good work/life balance?
• Move into a different sector?
• Gain new qualifications?

Whatever it is that you’re looking for, make sure to communicate this to your potential employer. They want to know what you need in order to be happy and successful in the role, so don’t be afraid to be specific. If you can show them that you understand what the role entails and that you have the skills and qualities they are looking for, you’ll be one step closer to landing the job.

“I’m looking for a role that will allow me to develop my skills and knowledge. I want to be able to challenge myself and learn new things. I’m also hoping to find an employer who is willing to invest in my development.”

“I’m looking for a position that will give me the opportunity to use my creativity. I want to be able to work on projects that inspire me and help me to grow as an individual.”

“I’d like a role that offers a good work/life balance. I want to be able to enjoy my free time outside of work, without having to sacrifice my career progression. I feel that I do my best work when I’m able to properly rest and recharge, so a healthier work/life balance will be beneficial for me.”

What to avoid saying

When you’re discussing what you’re looking for in your next role, there are a few things you should avoid saying.

First, don’t focus on the negatives of your current situation. For example, avoid saying things like “I need a role that pays more money” or “I want to work fewer hours.” While these may be true, they come across as unprofessional and entitled. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of the role you’re applying for and how it can help you to meet your long-term goals.

Second, don’t make any demands of your potential employer. For example, avoid saying things like “I need a pay raise” or “I want to be in charge”. Again, these can come across as negative. Instead, focus on what you can bring to the role and how you can add value to the company.

Finally, avoid being vague. It’s important to be specific about what you’re looking for in your next role. This will show that you have thought carefully about the role and that you understand what is required. If you’re unsure of what to say, take a look at the job description and use it as a guide. Think about what they are offering and how it aligns with your long-term goals.

By following these tips, you can be sure to give a positive and professional answer when asked, “what are you looking for in your next position?” Remember, this question is your opportunity to sell yourself to potential employers. So make the most of it.