How long would you expect to work for us if hired?

Every company worries about attrition, especially for fresher roles where training takes months. This question checks whether you will still be there once you start adding real value.

Why interviewers ask this

The interviewer cannot hold you to a number, but your answer shows your mindset. Someone who talks about growth inside the company is a safer hire than someone who mentions a timeline before moving on.

How to answer

• Avoid giving a short number like “two years”. Talk about growth instead.
• Say that you plan to stay as long as you are learning and contributing.
• Show that you know something about career paths in this company.
• If the company has a service agreement or bond, show that you have read it and are comfortable with it.

Sample answers

Fresher

I am looking for a place where I can build a long-term career, not just a first job. As long as I keep learning and taking on more responsibility, I do not see a reason to move. I read that many of your project leads started as trainees here, and that kind of path is exactly what I want.

Experienced

I have been in my current company for four years because the work kept growing with me. I want the same here: if I can move from developer to technical lead over time and keep working on challenging systems, I would like to stay for many years.

Mistakes to avoid

• “Until I get a better offer” or “till I clear my MBA entrance”.
• Promising forever. It sounds rehearsed.
• Asking about promotions before you are hired.

Final tip

If you are planning higher studies soon, do not lie about it — but if you are not sure, you do not need to bring it up.