I don't think answer that question honestly takes you out of contention. You simply state what your career goals are in broad strokes. Say 'I want to advance to

I don't think answer that question honestly takes you out of contention. You simply state what your career goals are in broad strokes. Say 'I want to advance to a position to mentor others' or 'I want to be managing a small team' or things like that. This helps make things clear as to what you are looking for in the future. If I know you want to be a team lead, manager, whatever that helps shape the job and your career growth, and maybe keep you around longer. Or if I know you have no interest in management, you don't get forced into it and leave earlier than you would have. Obviously shouldn't answer and say 'I want to work at Major Competitor X, doing Y', but being honest is good for everyone involved. Everyone knows people stick around for maybe a few years and move on. 5 years is a long time, and you may not be (probably not) working for the same company, but its a question about character, motivation, and goals. Not company loyalty or some sort of trap question.