The interviewer may ask you interview questions regarding the purpose of your job search – The reason you want to leave your current position, your present job, and your company (if you’re employed).
This article addresses this question and provides an answer for the same. People leave their jobs for common reasons.
Much researches were conducted to study these reasons, so you most probably can find your case fits in one of them. After reading this article, refer to the list of articles below for more information.
Being Tactful When Explaining the Reasons that you Want to Leave your Job!
Your motivation to leave your current job is one thing, but answering an interview question about it is another thing. When answering why you are leaving your job, you need to be careful not to harm your chances of getting hired – Certain things need not be revealed to interviewers.
At the end of the day, the new employers should know whether you can do the job, whether you will fit into the company culture, and what your motivation level is.
You want to give the most truthful answer while:
- Not presenting any haphazard or negative image about yourself.
- Not blaming your bosses because blaming others creates a negative idea about your professionalism.
- Not revealing any problematic (or personal) information.
How To Explain Your Reasons for Leaving a Job
It is important to stress the positive aspects by communicating strengths, purpose, and enthusiasm.
How to Answer:
You must make the impression that you are sitting in front of the interviewer for a well-thought-out reason – You have an organized career plan, a positive attitude, and a clear job target.
QUESTION: Why do you want to leave your job? Or why are you leaving your current job?
Here are two answers to compare:
ANSWER 1: I don’t feel I’m going anywhere in my current job. The morale in my department is very low, and the management doesn’t give feedback or rewards. I don’t like working there anymore.
ANSWER 2: After working in [your current company] for more than 5 years, where I have learned a lot in [your profession], I am now a master/expert in [A, B, C], working plus managing people and exploring new markets for our products. It is time for me to move on and enhance my professional growth.
I want to improve my overall skills by joining a larger and more progressive organization where I can learn/utilize [other skills] and gain experience in several different areas. I am also ready to take on more responsibilities and feel I am competent for X, Y, Z.
The difference between the two answers is obvious – One is negative, and the second is positive.
The first answer communicates too many negatives about your current job, while the second one uses positive language – you have good thoughts on your current job (you are even grateful) and yet have a clear mind toward skills, accomplishments, and future prospects.
Sample Answers: Why Do You Want to Leave Your Job?
Here are additional responses that you can consider –
Answer 1: One reason I am seeking new opportunities is to broaden my professional network. While I have had a great experience in my current job, I believe that connecting with professionals from different backgrounds and industries will help me expand my horizons and bring fresh perspectives to my work.
Explanation: This response emphasizes the desire for professional growth and the importance of building a diverse network to enhance career prospects.
Answer 2: I have reached a point in my career where I am seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth. Although my current job has provided valuable experiences, I believe that stepping out of my comfort zone and tackling new projects will push me to develop new skills and reach my full potential.
Explanation: This response focuses on the individual’s drive for personal and professional development and the need for fresh challenges to foster continuous growth.
Answer 3: The current job market offers exciting prospects in my field, and I want to explore these opportunities. By transitioning to a new role, I aim to stay updated with the latest industry trends and advancements, ensuring that I remain competitive and continue to contribute effectively to the field.
Explanation: This response highlights the importance of staying current in a rapidly evolving industry and the desire to align oneself with new trends and developments.
Answer 4: I am seeking a better work-life balance in my next position. While I appreciate the experiences gained from my current job, I believe that finding a role that allows me to maintain a healthy personal life while excelling professionally is crucial for long-term satisfaction and productivity.
Explanation: This response emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and the recognition that a harmonious integration of personal and professional life leads to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Answer 5: A key reason for my job search is to relocate to a different city or region. Whether it’s to be closer to family or to explore a new environment, I believe that a change of location will bring fresh perspectives and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Explanation: This response highlights the individual’s desire for a change in location and the potential benefits of experiencing a new environment in terms of personal and career development.
Remember, these responses are intended to showcase positive reasons for leaving a job and promote the candidate’s motivation, growth mindset, and alignment with future opportunities.