This is one of those questions that some employers ask to get an idea of how you view your chances for corporate growth and your perception of success. First of all, don’t suggest that you measure success by the acquisition of money. Certainly one can’t deny that financial gain is part of how many view success, but it shouldn’t be the primary reference point. Putting emphasis on the monetary aspects of success will limit the view the employer has of you, and will also cause them to question how long you’ll stick around if you don’t receive regular and substantial bumps in salary or benefits. Indicate your belief that there are other factors that induce feelings of success. You can refer to the importance of setting and attaining goals, receiving the respect of your peers and your community, having control over your life, or watching your kids grow and become independent and self-sufficient. You can also suggest that success means having the time and the freedom to pursue new/other goals outside of work, such as travel or writing a book. Your own self-sufficiency, satisfaction with the work you do, and feeling like you make a positive contribution to the world, or having a good family life and close friends are all a part of the essence of success.