Key Account Manager Interview Questions and Answers

1 .

Can you tell me about your experience as a Key Account Manager or in a similar role?

In my previous role as a Key Account Manager at [Previous Company], I was responsible for managing and nurturing relationships with several high-value clients. My primary focus was on understanding each client's unique needs, developing tailored solutions, and ensuring long-term satisfaction to drive business growth.

For example, I managed [X number] of key accounts across [specific industry or region], overseeing annual revenues of [specific amount, if applicable]. Through regular communication, strategic planning, and quarterly business reviews, I was able to identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling, resulting in a [specific percentage]% increase in revenue from those accounts over [specific time period].

I also collaborated closely with internal teams—including sales, product, and customer support—to address client concerns, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional service. One of my proudest achievements was successfully negotiating a multi-year contract renewal with one of our top clients, securing long-term partnership and mutual growth.

Overall, my experience has honed my skills in relationship management, strategic account planning, and driving measurable results, and I’m excited to bring this expertise to your team.

2 .

How do you approach building relationships with key clients?

Building strong relationships with key clients is essential for long-term success, and I approach it with a combination of trust, communication, and value delivery:

* Understanding Client Needs : I start by thoroughly understanding the client’s business, industry, goals, and challenges. This helps me align our solutions with their objectives.

* Regular Communication : I maintain consistent and transparent communication through regular meetings, emails, and check-ins. This ensures clients feel heard and valued while keeping them informed about updates or opportunities.

* Delivering Value : I focus on adding value beyond the basic service or product offering. Whether it’s sharing industry insights, offering tailored solutions, or proactively addressing potential concerns, I aim to position myself as a trusted advisor.

* Building Trust : Trust is earned through reliability and consistency. I ensure that I deliver on promises, meet deadlines, and follow through on commitments.

* Collaborative Approach : I involve key stakeholders—both from the client’s side and internally—to foster collaboration and ensure alignment on goals and deliverables.

* Feedback Loop : I actively seek feedback from clients to identify areas for improvement and demonstrate a willingness to adapt and grow based on their needs.

For example, in my previous role at [Company Name], I worked closely with a major client who was experiencing operational challenges. By scheduling regular strategy sessions, proposing tailored solutions, and maintaining open communication, we not only resolved their immediate concerns but also grew the account by 20% over the next year.

This approach ensures that my clients don’t just see me as a vendor but as a long-term partner invested in their success.

3 .

Describe a time you successfully grew an existing key account.

In my previous role at [Company Name], I managed one of our key accounts in the [industry] sector. Initially, the client was only utilizing a limited range of our products/services, and I saw an opportunity to expand our partnership.

I started by conducting an in-depth analysis of their business needs and challenges through regular meetings and open conversations with their decision-makers. I identified areas where our additional products/services could add value, streamline their operations, and reduce costs.

I then prepared a tailored proposal outlining these opportunities and demonstrated the ROI they could expect. Additionally, I coordinated with our internal teams to ensure we could meet their requirements seamlessly.

As a result of this effort, the client agreed to a phased adoption of our additional services, which led to a 35% increase in annual revenue from this account over the next 12 months. Beyond the financial growth, the client expressed increased satisfaction with our partnership and extended their contract for an additional three years.

This experience reinforced the importance of understanding client needs, delivering tailored solutions, and maintaining consistent communication to grow and solidify key accounts.

4 .

How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders in your key account management?

Why does this question matter? This allows the hiring manager to evaluate the candidate's interpersonal skills, teamwork, and stakeholder management abilities.

What do they listen for in your answer? Evidence of collaboration, conflict resolution, and strong alignment with both internal and external stakeholders.

Example Answer : "Effective communication and collaboration are paramount in managing key accounts. I regularly schedule cross-functional meetings, ensuring clarity and alignment on goals and, where necessary, organize joint activities to foster collaboration.

5 .

Describe a time when you successfully upsold a current client and how you achieved the sale.

Key account managers have to have an understanding of the customer and their current needs, as well as the ability to identify additional opportunities for them. This question allows the interviewer to assess your ability to identify and capitalize on new sales opportunities with existing customers. It also demonstrates your ability to effectively communicate the value of your product or service to the customer.

How to Answer : You should come prepared to answer this question with examples of your past successes in building relationships with key accounts. Talk about how you identified customer needs and tailored your product or service to meet those needs. You can also discuss any strategies you have used to build rapport and trust with customers, such as regular check-ins, personalized communication, or customized products/services. Finally, emphasize the importance of understanding the customer’s business and industry so that you can better serve them.

Example Answer : “I recently worked with a large retail chain to develop a custom loyalty program that was tailored to their specific needs. I identified the key areas of improvement for them, such as increasing customer engagement and driving repeat purchases, and then developed a comprehensive plan to address those issues. To upsell this client, I presented my proposal in terms of how it would benefit their business, emphasizing the increased ROI they could expect from implementing the program. By doing so, I was able to successfully convince them to invest in the project and ultimately increase their sales.

6 .

What industries or sectors have you worked with, and how does that experience apply to this role?

In my previous roles, I’ve had the opportunity to work with key accounts across industries such as [e.g., manufacturing, retail, healthcare, technology, finance, etc.]. Each sector presented unique challenges and opportunities, which helped me develop a versatile approach to account management.

* In the manufacturing sector, I focused on streamlining supply chain communication and ensuring consistent product delivery schedules to meet client production timelines.

* In the retail industry, I worked on optimizing product placement and ensuring timely seasonal promotions to drive sales performance.

* In the technology sector, I collaborated closely with technical teams to deliver tailored software solutions that aligned with client business goals.

This diverse industry experience has taught me to quickly understand different business models, adapt to varying client expectations, and identify key growth opportunities across sectors. It’s also strengthened my ability to build trust with clients from different professional backgrounds and navigate industry-specific challenges effectively.

I believe this cross-industry experience equips me to handle the complexities of managing key accounts in your organization while bringing fresh perspectives and adaptable strategies to the table.

7 .

How do you identify the needs and goals of a key account?

Identifying the needs and goals of a key account starts with building a deep understanding of their business and establishing open lines of communication. My approach includes the following steps:

* Research and Preparation : Before engaging with the client, I research their company, industry trends, competitors, and any public financial or strategic reports. This gives me context about their position in the market and potential challenges they might face.

* Active Listening : During client meetings, I ask open-ended questions to encourage them to share their goals, pain points, and expectations. I focus on truly listening to their responses to uncover insights that might not be immediately obvious.

* Regular Check-Ins : I maintain regular touchpoints with key stakeholders—not just during quarterly reviews but through ongoing conversations. These discussions help me stay updated on evolving priorities and emerging challenges.

* Stakeholder Mapping : I identify and engage with decision-makers, influencers, and end-users within the client organization. Different stakeholders often have varying priorities, and understanding these perspectives helps in aligning our solutions effectively.

* Data Analysis : I analyze account performance metrics, usage patterns, and historical data to identify trends or areas where improvements can be made.

* Collaborative Goal-Setting : Once I have a clear understanding of their needs, I collaborate with the client to define measurable goals and outline actionable steps to achieve them.

For example, in my previous role, I noticed a key client’s usage of our product had plateaued. Through active conversations and analysis, I discovered they were facing internal training challenges. I proposed a customized training workshop, which improved their team’s confidence in using our product and ultimately increased adoption by 25%.

By combining research, active listening, and data-driven insights, I ensure I have a well-rounded understanding of each key account’s needs and goals.

8 .

What strategies do you use to maintain long-term relationships with clients?

Maintaining long-term relationships with clients is built on trust, consistent value delivery, and proactive communication. My strategies include:

* Regular Communication : I prioritize consistent touchpoints with clients—whether through scheduled check-ins, quarterly reviews, or informal conversations. This ensures they know they can rely on me and gives them an opportunity to voice concerns or provide feedback.

* Personalized Service : I tailor my approach to each client’s specific needs, ensuring they feel valued and not like just another account. By understanding their business goals and challenges, I can offer more relevant solutions and anticipate their evolving needs.

* Proactive Problem-Solving : Rather than waiting for issues to arise, I stay ahead by anticipating potential challenges and addressing them before they escalate. For example, I monitor account performance regularly and make adjustments or suggest improvements, which helps clients see me as a trusted advisor rather than just a vendor.

* Transparency and Integrity : I’m open and transparent in all my dealings, whether it’s about delivery timelines, potential delays, or pricing adjustments. Being honest about potential challenges fosters a deeper level of trust.

* Value-Added Insights : I provide clients with valuable insights—whether through market trends, new product developments, or industry best practices—that help them stay competitive.

* Celebrating Milestones : Recognizing and celebrating client milestones, such as anniversaries or achievements, helps build a more personal connection. I like to acknowledge their successes and show appreciation for their partnership.

For example, with one of my key clients, I ensured open communication around a product update that would affect their usage. I worked closely with their team to provide early access to training materials, reducing downtime and ensuring the transition was smooth. This proactive support led to increased client satisfaction and the renewal of a multi-year contract.

Ultimately, I believe that long-term relationships are nurtured by being reliable, responsive, and continually demonstrating that you are invested in your client’s success.

9 .

How do you qualify sales leads and gather research before reaching out?

Your job as a key account manager is to identify potential high-value clients and build strong relationships with them. To do this, you’ll need to know a lot about the customer, their needs, and what they’re looking for. This question gives the interviewer an opportunity to see how you go about getting to know the customer and preparing for a successful sales call. It also helps show that you understand the importance of research and preparation.

How to Answer : Start by talking about the research methods you use to qualify a lead. Do you look at their website, social media accounts, or review any customer reviews? Are there any industry publications that can help you gain insight into the company’s needs and goals? You should also explain how you use this information to craft your sales pitch. For example, do you tailor it to the company’s specific needs? Do you provide case studies or success stories from other clients in the same industry? Finally, make sure to emphasize the importance of building relationships with customers and how you go above and beyond to ensure they have a positive experience.

Example Answer : “When I’m qualifying a lead, the first thing I do is research their company and industry. This helps me get an understanding of who they are and what they need. I look at their website, review customer reviews, and scan through industry publications to gain insight into their goals and objectives. Then I use this information to craft a tailored sales pitch that speaks directly to their needs. I also provide case studies and success stories from other clients in the same industry so they can see how my product or service has helped others. Above all else, I prioritize building relationships with customers and make sure they have a positive experience throughout the entire process.

10 .

How do you handle it when you are feeling overwhelmed by multiple demands?

When you are a key account manager, it is likely that you will have multiple clients and projects to manage. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the workload of being a key account manager. In your answer, explain how you prioritize tasks and keep yourself organized. Explain what strategies you use to stay on top of everything.

Example Answer : I find that I am most productive when I have a daily schedule planned out for myself. This helps me know exactly what I need to do each day. When I first started as a key account manager, I would write down all my deadlines in a planner. Now, I use an online calendar so I can access it from anywhere. Another strategy I use is delegating certain tasks to other team members. For example, if I have a lot of phone calls to return, I will delegate those to another member of my team who has more time than I do.

11 .

How do you deal with difficult customer service issues?

Key account managers often have to deal with difficult customers. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle these situations effectively. In your answer, explain how you would approach a customer who is upset or angry. Explain that you would try to calm them down and resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Example Answer : I once had a client who was very unhappy with our service. They called me multiple times about their issues, which made it hard for me to focus on other work. I decided to meet with them in person so we could discuss the situation more thoroughly. I listened to what they had to say and apologized for any inconvenience. We were able to come up with a solution together, and they are now one of our most loyal customers.

12 .

How does the key account management role differ from other sales and marketing roles?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you view your role in a company and whether you have experience with other sales or marketing roles. Use your answer to highlight what makes key account management unique, such as its focus on long-term relationships rather than short-term goals.

Example Answer : Key account management is different from other sales and marketing roles because it focuses on building long-term relationships with clients instead of making quick sales. Key account managers are responsible for identifying client needs and developing strategies that will keep them loyal to their brand over time. This requires more strategic thinking than some sales and marketing roles.

13 .

What do you think is the best way to build trust with a client?

Trust is an important part of any key account manager’s job. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to build trust with your clients and ensure they’re satisfied with the work you do for them. In your answer, explain what steps you take to gain a client’s trust. Explain that it’s also important to maintain that trust once you’ve earned it.

Example Answer : “I think one of the best ways to build trust with a client is by being honest about everything we do for them. I always try to be upfront about our progress on projects and give my clients regular updates so they know exactly where their project stands. This helps me show them that I’m trustworthy and committed to doing quality work for them.”

14 .

How comfortable are you with using digital marketing tools and platforms?

Digital marketing is a growing field, and employers want to know that you’re familiar with the latest tools and platforms. If you have experience using digital marketing tools, highlight your skills in this area. If you don’t have any experience, explain how you would learn these skills if hired.

Example Answer : I’ve been working as a key account manager for three years now, but I also have some experience with digital marketing. In my previous role, I worked on a campaign where we used social media influencers to promote our product. We found that influencers were more effective than traditional advertising because they had a large following who trusted their opinions. I think it’s important to use all available resources when promoting a product.

15 .

Are you comfortable cold calling to attract new clients?

Cold calling is a key part of a key account manager’s job. It’s a chance to get your company’s name out there and to make contacts in the industry. Interviewers want to make sure you’re comfortable with this part of the job and that you have the skills necessary to be successful.

How to Answer It : Start by talking about your experience with cold calling. If you have any, tell the interviewer how many calls you’ve made and what kind of success rate you had. You can also talk about any techniques or strategies that you use to make sure your calls are successful. Finally, emphasize your comfort level with cold calling—you want to show the interviewer that you won’t be intimidated by this part of the job.

Example Answer : “I have extensive experience with cold calling and I’m very comfortable talking to potential new clients. In my current role as a key account manager, I make at least five cold calls per day and have had great success in terms of building relationships with potential customers. My goal is always to make sure that the customer feels heard and understands how our services can help them meet their needs. I also use various tactics such as follow-up emails or phone calls to make sure they stay engaged.”

16 .

How do you stay informed about industry trends and developments in order to make informed decisions as a Key Account Manager?

In this role, you’ll be responsible for managing and growing relationships with key accounts. To do this, you’ll need to be well-informed about the industry to ensure you’re making the right decisions for the company and its clients. The interviewer wants to know that you’re capable of staying on top of the latest industry trends, developments, and news to make sure you’re making the best decisions.

How to Answer It : To answer this question, you should discuss the methods you use to stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments. Do you read trade magazines or attend conferences? Are there any online resources you rely on for news? Talk about how you take the initiative to research and understand the latest developments in the industry so that you can make informed decisions as a Key Account Manager.

Example Answer : “I stay informed about industry trends and developments by reading trade magazines and attending conferences whenever possible. I also follow several industry leaders on social media and regularly check their blogs and websites for news and updates. I also subscribe to several industry-related newsletters to stay up-to-date on the latest developments. Additionally, I’m always looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve, so I’m constantly researching new technologies and trends to ensure I’m making informed decisions for the company and its key accounts.”

17 .

Have you ever managed a key account initiative that failed? What lessons did you take away from the experience?

Key account managers often have to manage sensitive relationships and juggle multiple stakeholders’ needs. Even with the best planning and execution, things can still go wrong. This question allows the interviewer to assess your ability to take responsibility for mistakes and learn from them. It also shows that you’re open to giving honest answers when challenged.

How to Answer It : You should be prepared to talk about a time when you’ve managed an initiative that didn’t go as planned. Start by talking through the initiative and what went wrong, then explain how you took responsibility for your part in it. Then, discuss any lessons you learned from the experience and how you applied them to future initiatives. Finally, end with how you would approach similar projects differently in the future.

Example Answer : “I recently managed a key account initiative that didn’t have the desired outcome. We had planned to launch a new product line to a key account, but the launch was delayed due to a number of factors. I took responsibility for the delay, and identified the areas where I could have done better. From this experience, I learned the importance of clear communication and thorough planning. I now make sure to build in extra time for unexpected delays and communicate any changes to the team as soon as possible. I also ensure that I’m constantly assessing the progress of projects and addressing any issues that may arise.

18 .

Do you have any experience negotiating contracts with key accounts?

Key account managers must be able to negotiate contracts with clients in order to get the best possible deals for the company. They must also be able to handle difficult conversations with clients, as well as handle the financial aspects of the deal. By asking this question, the interviewer is looking to see if you have the skills and experience needed to succeed in this role.

How to Answer It : To answer this question, you should provide a few examples of how you have successfully negotiated contracts in the past. Talk about any challenges that you faced and how you overcame them. You should also explain what strategies you use when negotiating with clients, such as being open to compromise or using data-driven tactics. Finally, be sure to emphasize your ability to build trust and strong relationships with key accounts.

Example Answer : “I have extensive experience negotiating contracts with key accounts. I have successfully negotiated contracts with clients in a range of industries, including retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. I have a strong understanding of the financial aspects of a deal, and I am confident in my ability to get the best possible deal for the company. I also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which I use to build strong relationships with my clients. My approach to negotiation is focused on being open to compromise, while also using data-driven tactics to ensure that the deal is fair for both parties.”

19 .

Give an example of how you have used technology in your key account management.

Technology plays a big role in key account management. The company will want to know that you are able to use technology to help you manage large accounts, as well as stay organized and up-to-date on any new developments or changes that may affect the accounts. Being comfortable with technology is a must for this position, so the interviewer wants to make sure you have the necessary skills.

How to Answer It : Start by talking about the technology you have experience with, such as customer relationship management (CRM) software, project management tools, or task tracking systems. Then provide an example of how you used the technology to help manage a key account. For instance, you might talk about how you used CRM software to track sales opportunities and customer interactions, or how you used project management tools to keep teams on track when working on large accounts. Be sure to mention any successes that resulted from your use of technology in managing key accounts.

Example Answer : “I have extensive experience using technology in my key account management. I have used CRM software to track sales opportunities and customer interactions, as well as project management tools to keep teams on track when working on large accounts. For example, I recently used a CRM system to track customer interactions and sales opportunities for a large account. This allowed me to quickly identify any areas where I could further engage with the customer, as well as identify any potential sales opportunities. As a result, I was able to increase sales for this account by 15% in just six months.”

20 .

Tell me about a time when you had to collaborate with other departments within the organization to support key accounts.

Key account managers often have to collaborate with different departments to ensure the success of their accounts. This question is designed to give the interviewer an understanding of how you handle such situations. It also indicates whether you can effectively coordinate and collaborate with other departments in order to achieve a common goal.

How to Answer It : Start by providing a brief overview of the situation and then explain how you worked with other departments to support the key accounts. Talk about the challenges faced, any strategies used to overcome them, and the outcome. Be sure to emphasize your role in leading the collaboration and how it was successful in helping achieve the desired goal. Finally, mention any lessons learned or improvements that could have been made to make the process more efficient.

Example Answer : “I was once tasked with managing a key account for a large retail chain. The account was very important to our organization and I had to work closely with other departments in order to ensure its success. I collaborated with the sales team to develop strategies to increase sales and with the marketing team to create effective campaigns. I also worked with the finance department to ensure that all payments were made on time and that all relevant paperwork was completed correctly. Through my strong leadership and collaboration, we were able to successfully support the key account and achieve the desired outcome. I learned a great deal from this experience and it has made me a more effective account manager.

21 .

How do you handle difficult conversations with key accounts?

Key account managers need to be able to handle difficult conversations with customers, as well as any internal colleagues who work with them. These conversations can often involve explaining complex business ideas, pricing models, and other areas of the business. The interviewer is looking for evidence that the candidate can handle these conversations with grace and professionalism, while still getting the desired outcome.

How to Answer It : To answer this question, you should explain the steps you take to prepare for difficult conversations. This could include researching the customer’s needs and interests, understanding their current situation, and anticipating any potential questions or objections they may have. You should also mention that you make sure to remain professional and respectful throughout the conversation, even if there are disagreements. Additionally, it can be helpful to emphasize your ability to listen and understand the customer’s perspective, as well as your willingness to compromise when necessary.

Example Answer : “When I have a difficult conversation with a key account, I always make sure to prepare thoroughly. I research the customer’s needs and interests, understand their current situation, and anticipate any potential questions or objections they may have. I remain professional and respectful throughout the conversation, even if there are disagreements. I strive to listen and understand the customer’s perspective, and I’m always willing to compromise when necessary to help my key accounts reach their goals. I believe this kind of approach helps to foster positive relationships and ensures that both parties are satisfied with the outcome.

22 .

How do you upkeep relationships with 'easy' clients who don't tend to reach out with complaints or concerns?

If you’re managing key accounts, part of your job is to ensure your clients are always happy and satisfied with the services they are receiving. This means you need to be able to identify issues before they become problems and be proactive in addressing them. This question is a way for the interviewers to gauge your ability to reach out and maintain relationships with clients who don’t have an immediate need for your services.

How to Answer It : This question is designed to see how proactive you are when it comes to maintaining relationships with clients who may not be as vocal about their needs. You should emphasize your ability to proactively reach out to these clients and ask for feedback, keep them updated on new products or services, and stay in touch with them even if there isn’t an immediate need. Additionally, you can highlight any strategies you have implemented in the past to ensure that all of your clients feel valued and appreciated, such as sending thank-you cards or offering discounts for loyal customers.

Example Answer : “I make it a priority to stay in touch with all of my clients, even those who don’t reach out with complaints or concerns. I believe that it’s important to build strong relationships with all of my clients, so I make sure to check in with them regularly. I also like to send out updates on new products or services that they may be interested in, as well as offer discounts or special promotions to show my appreciation. I also make sure to thank my clients for their business and always make sure to answer any questions they may have in a timely manner.

23 .

How do you manage multiple clients at the same time?

While key account managers only serve a company's most important clients, they're still responsible for multiple accounts at once. Employers prefer candidates who have the organizational and multitasking skills to give clients the proper attention. In your answer, consider mentioning productivity tools you use and strategies that allow you to prioritize tasks.

Example Answer : In my past roles, I've been responsible for as many as 10 clients at once. I identify their expectations from the beginning of every project and prioritize assignments based on each client's schedule. I also use client management software to provide regular updates and solicit feedback that can improve project results.

24 .

Where would you turn to for new sales opportunities in our industry if you were required to increase revenue by X% in a year?

This question assesses the candidate’s industry knowledge and their proactive approach to sales growth.

Example Answer : “I’d start by analyzing our current client base to identify upselling or cross-selling opportunities. Additionally, I’d research industry trends, attend relevant trade shows, and leverage networking to identify potential leads.”

25 .

What information do you need before contacting a new client for the first time?

Preparation is key when reaching out to potential clients. This question gauges the candidate’s approach to initial client interactions.

Example Answer : Before contacting a new client, I gather information about their industry, company background, their role in the company, past interactions with our firm if any, and any current challenges they might be facing that our solutions can address.

26 .

What do you believe makes a successful Key Account Manager?

A successful key account manager (KAM) has many qualities, including:

* Empathy : They understand the needs, goals, and drivers of others.

* Strategic thinking : They understand the bigger picture and don't get bogged down in details.

* Proactivity : They don't wait to take action and are in charge.

* Responsibility : They take responsibility for their actions and outcomes.

* Communication : They write and speak effectively, and confirm that others understand them.

* Preparation : They do the preparation work that others skip so they aren't surprised.

* Listening : They are active listeners and make sure others feel heard.

* Questioning : They ask meaningful questions that elicit insight and emotion.

* Forward-looking : They ask "what's next?" and don't just look in the rearview mirror.

* Fact-based : They are based in reality and know that "hope is not a strategy".

* Continuous learning : They invest in their skills and knowledge to keep moving forward.

* Fearlessness : They take the knocks and are willing to have tough conversations.

* Teamwork : They look out for the team and are collaborative.

KAMs also need to be great project managers who can juggle multiple clients, delegate, and manage assignments. They should have impeccable time management skills and strong organizational prowess.

27 .

Where do you see yourself in the next five years in account management?

you can consider your career goals and how you plan to grow and develop in your role:

* Taking on more responsibility : You can mention how you plan to grow in your role and contribute to the company's success.
* Developing your skills : You can mention how you plan to continue learning and developing your skills in relevant areas.
* Becoming a leader : You can mention how you plan to take on leadership roles and mentor others.
* Making an impact : You can mention how you plan to make a significant impact in the industry and help the company grow.
* Balancing work and life : You can mention how you plan to balance your career and personal goals.

Here are some examples of how you can answer this question :

* "I see myself taking on increasing responsibilities within the company and contributing to its growth".
* "I want to become an expert in [mention a key area that relates to the job] and take on a leadership role within the department".
* "I'm interested in applying my love of [broader themes of your skills] to help make a difference".

Employers often ask this question to see if you plan on being with the company long-term.