This is one of those general questions that interviewers often throw at potential employees. It may be an employer’s way of getting some idea of where you want your career to go and how it fits with the company. However, it may also be a way of seeing how well you can think on your feet and how well you can function under a bit of pressure.

Unfortunately, there is no right or wrong answer to this question. It just gives an interviewer a glimpse at your personality and the responses can be used to weed out potential candidates. Your answer will also indicate to an interviewer whether your goals are in line with those of their company.

The best thing you can do is prepare for this question before going for into the interview. First, find out as much as you can about the company. Use information available on the Internet since many companies do have Web sites. You can also try making a few phone calls to current or past employees to get the inside scoop on the company.

Answering this question does require you to take a look at what your strengths and weaknesses are, what you have liked and disliked about your current and previous jobs, and where you would like to go with your career in the future.

Keep in mind though that this is not the time to rant about all the things you disliked about previous jobs. Once you’ve thought about the things you have disliked, you can then describe an ideal job as the opposite of what you have disliked.

Again, there is no right or wrong answer tot his question. An Internet search will provide you with various strategies for putting forth a valid answer. Although this seems like a lot to tackle, the best thing you can do is be honest and of course professional.