Why do you want to leave your current job sample answer

Job Interview Question: Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job? (Samples)

A job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it doesn’t have to be. As a job seeker, you can minimize your jitters by being prepared for the kinds of questions you might be asked. One of the most tough interview questions is when employers want to know, “Why are you leaving your current job?”

Don’t let that question stymie you. Employers asking this question are trying to uncover your motivation for finding a new job, and in particular, why you want leave your current role and work for them.

They’re also likely trying to assess if you’re an employee who will stick with the company and align with its mission. The cost of losing employees and hiring and training new ones is high, and companies want to feel like you’re applying to their job for the right reasons.

Be prepared to answer this question with confidence to boost your chances of getting hired.

 How to answer, “Why are you leaving your current job?”

– You’re looking for greater work flexibility

The “why are you leaving your current job” question can open the door for you to talk about any past success working remotely, your technical know-how in operating from your home office, and your steadfast dedication to flexible work.

Brie Reynolds, FlexJobs’ former Career Development Manager and Career Coach, advised, “Be careful with this one, though. You don’t want a prospective employer to think you’re only in it for the flexibility. Talk about how flexible work helps you be more productive and creative, or specifically how it’s helped your work in the past. And don’t speak badly about your less-than-flexible current or past employers.”

– You’re looking for new challenges

Use the opportunity to talk about your professional skills and how you’re looking for fresh challenges in your career that make the most of your abilities. Avoid describing your current job as “dead-end,” which may come across as bad-mouthing your current employer.

– You’re seeking to advance your career

Put a long-term spin on your answer by explaining that your overall career goals include achieving a specific job level or title in your profession. Follow up by saying that, in your experience, your current job doesn’t allow for the kind of advancement you’re seeking.

“A key to this response is connecting your career advancement with helping to advance the company at the same time. You’re looking for a place where you can grow with the company, not just the next step in your rise to the top,” said Reynolds.

– You want to take on more responsibility

Put yourself in a good light by presenting yourself as a highly responsible job candidate who’s willing and capable of taking on even more. This forward-thinking approach signals a maturity and level-headedness that could be appealing to a potential employer.

– You believe the prospective employer’s job opening is a great fit for your skills and experience

Get specific and offer a litany of reasons why you’re tailor-made for the job. Here’s where you can elaborate on the skills that have gotten you this far (to the interview stage) in the hiring process. Talk about the specific requirements of the position and how your background makes you a good fit.

– You’re seeking better work-life balance

Employers are increasingly sensitive to the demands of millennials, working parents, caregivers, and others who want a healthier work-life blend.

Being upfront—not pushy—about the importance of work-life integration is a great comeback to questions about why you’re leaving your current job.

“Again, be careful—you don’t want to seem like you’re only applying because the company offers great work-life balance. Talk about how you’re impressed with the company’s approach to work-life balance and employee support, and that you’re also excited about the job opportunity itself,” warned Reynolds.

– You’re looking to move your career in a different direction

Circle back to your resume and all the accomplishments spotlighted there, and then mention that you’re ready for a career pivot that will allow you to try new things. Focusing on your achievements can help.

“This is a great answer because you can talk about what you’ve achieved already, what you’d ideally love to work on in this new role, and how you can see yourself making an impact and using your skills in a new way,” said Reynolds.

– You’re looking for an opportunity where you can make a difference

It’s OK to talk about frustrations in your current job that make you feel you’re unable to make the contributions you’d like to make in your career.

Talk about the specific impacts the employer’s organization has made to the profession (or in general), and discuss how you’d like to be a part of that effort in the future.

– You weren’t looking to change jobs, but came across their posting and think it would be a great fit for you

Make it seem like kismet—that the job opening found you as much as you found it. This is a great answer that has the advantage of portraying you as content enough in your current job, but ready to leap for a great job opportunity when it arises.

 What not to say when asked, “Why are you leaving your current job?”

Sometimes certain things are better left unsaid. While you may have other reasons for leaving your job, you need to show discretion in what you share with a potential employer. Keep it professional and avoid the statements below.

– I don’t get along with my boss

Not getting along with your boss or coworkers happens. Sometimes personalities don’t click, or sometimes you have a truly bad boss.

But telling this to your interviewer will only lead to them to wonder what’s wrong with you and if you won’t get along with your new boss. Talking negatively about your boss or company won’t reflect well on you. Skip this statement, even if it’s true.

– I’m leaving before they fire me

Sometimes employers will allow an employee to resign instead of being fired. Or maybe you know you’re being let go for one reason or another.

No matter what it is, avoid using negative terms like “fired,” especially if it hasn’t actually happened to you yet. Talk instead about wanting to explore a new job and why you’re a great fit for the role at hand.

– They don’t pay me enough

Being underpaid is a real concern. But it’s not necessary for your potential new boss to know this information.

If you’re seeking a better pay rate with a new role, focus on proving your worth and experience during the interview. When it comes time to negotiate, you’ll be in a better spot to get the salary you deserve.

– I’m bored

While being at any job for long enough may cause you to tire of the everyday tasks, there are more diplomatic ways of saying this.

If you’re uninspired by your work, consider saying something like “I’m looking to grow my knowledge and experience in a new area.”

Thinking about leaving your current job?

No matter your reason for leaving a job and seeking out a new one, FlexJobs has you covered. We have flexible jobs in over 50 career categories to help you find the perfect fit.

               Start Your Search for Flexible Work >>>      

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