How to answer “How do you want to improve yourself in the next year?” in a job interview. Similar interview questions are: “What would you change about yourself?” or “What areas require self-improvement?“
The main reason why interviewers ask this question is to find out how you view yourself, if you’re interested in self-improvement and/or if you have personal or professional priorities. That way, the interviewer can determine if there’s a cultural fit and whether they can help you reach your goals.
Example Answer
“Next year, I’d like to improve my interpersonal skills by attending more industry-specific events and conferences. That way, I can build a professional network and meet like-minded professionals that give me new energy, ideas and knowledge that I can apply in this position.
The [Industry] is a rapidly changing environment that already requires constant self-improvement. For example, previous year I had to familiarize myself with [Software 1] and [Software 2] outside working hours. It certainly boosts productivity and helps organize group projects, but it reduces human interaction.”
Interview Question Tips
- Don’t ramble about minor resolutions or annoyances. The interviewer is looking for a thoughtful and positive-minded answer. You may highlight a weakness as long as you inform them about your plan on progressing and improving it over the course of next year.
- Do try to focus on professional / work-related improvements. That way, you’ll come across as an ambitious candidate that wants to take on more responsibilities and move your career forward. You can also address a personal priority, but try to keep it relevant to the job role.