128. How to Answer "What Are Your Career Goals?" Without Sounding Vague | Leadership Communication Tips

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Ever been asked about your career goals and completely blanked?

You're in a meeting with your manager or a senior leader. The conversation is going well—until they ask: "What are your goals for next year?"

Your mind goes blank. You give a vague answer like "I want to keep growing" or "I'm open to new opportunities." They nod politely. The conversation moves on.

And you walk away knowing you just made yourself invisible again.

Meanwhile, others who aren't working as hard as you are confidently articulating exactly where they're headed—and they keep getting promoted while you feel stuck.

Sound familiar?

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why vague goals get vague results (and keep you overlooked for promotions)
• The 5 biggest mistakes women leaders make when talking about their career goals
• How to connect your goals to business impact (so you sound strategic, not selfish)
• The exact language to use when your manager asks about your goals for next year
• A simple structure for articulating both career goals and development goals with confidence
• How to ask for what you need without sounding passive or apologetic

This episode is perfect for you if:

✅ You're tired of watching less qualified people advance while you stay stuck

✅ You freeze when asked about your career goals in performance reviews or one-on-ones

✅ You downplay your ambition to avoid being seen as "too much

✅ Year-end review conversations are coming up, and you want to be prepared

✅ You want to advocate for yourself, but don't know how to do it effectively

About Your Host:

Kele Belton is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and consultant who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.

Connect with Kele for more leadership insights:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/
• Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com