Why they ask this and what they are looking for:   This question "What areas would you like to further develop professionally?" will uncover whether you are interested and knowledgeable about your own development and as such will can be a cloaked attempt to discover your weaknesses. A common target of the question is to discover how motivated you are to extend yourself. If you are motivated to learn, then you are probably more motivated to do the job well.   How to answer this: First show that you are concerned and active about your own development. You can indicate how development has worked for your in the past. You're right, continued learning and development is important and I continue to work to improve key skills. Do answer the question, of course, but do not show gaping holes in your skill set and especially those in key areas required in the job. A good trick is to talk about developing your skills in new areas that will be of future benefit to the company.   For example : I am in programming now and love the work, but one day I would like to develop into a management role.   Hope this helps you..!