This question can be a bit tricky. There are land mines all over the place. For example, you might be tempted to say you see yourself running the whole joint, but that’s obviously unwise. It demonstrates ambition and enthusiasm, but you’re all but saying you’re going to mutiny the leaders currently in charge.

You also don’t want to be baited into personalizing this question too much. It can get you off-topic very easily. They’re not interested in whether you want to get married in five years but rather in your career, and more specifically your career with the company.

And, of course, avoid suggesting that the company you’re applying to is just a pit stop or a stepping stone. In other words, don’t come off as indecisive or unreliable. Avoid saying things such as, “Well, if my band takes off, I’m hoping to tour,” or, “I’m hoping to have my own cooking show.”

Unlike with most questions, you’re going to want to keep the answer here pretty general, albeit as truthful and candid as you can without foregoing tact.
Within five years, I hope to have grown with the company and to have advanced professionally toward my ultimate goal of becoming an impactful data analyst, and, eventually, data scientist. And, of course, I’d like to have a comfortable work-life balance and pay down my debts from college.