Top Interview Questions - 5. Why are you leaving or have left your job?

Welcome back to my 10 part blog on the most commonly asked interview questions! Hope my past 4 topics have given you good tips on how to prepare and ace your next interview. Today I have a look at another tricky one - 'Why are you leaving or have left your job?'

When asked about why you are moving on, stick with the facts, be direct and focus your interview answer on the future, especially if your leaving wasn't under the best of circumstances. Also if you portray you are very happy with your current job, then the panel might ask you this question.  I was in a similar position when asked why I was leaving a wonderful role and team. Since then I have tried different answers based on my circumstances. 

Hiring managers are just people, and people are naturally curious. That means at some point during the interview, you’re going to get the question, “So, why are you leaving your current job?” Obviously, you want to be honest in an interview. You’re leaving your job for a reason. But you should really try your best to refrain from being negative. Focus on what you have to look forward to, not what you’re leaving behind. 

Short Answers

* I like the work I am doing and I get along very well with everyone in my team, but I have a strong desire to learn other skills that I cannot learn in my current role. 

* I have been in my current role for over 3 years and I want to now gain experience in other areas. I love the job, but I want to grow more professionally. 

* I love to learn new things and after several years in this current role, I have realised I was doing the same thing repeatedly. So the only reason I want to leave is to broaden my knowledge and add to my skills repertoire by gaining other experiences. 

* I want to take on a management position and unfortunately my current position cannot offer me that opportunity. Hence, I have decided to seek a new role that will allow me to gain management experience.

Long Answer

I have been with my previous team for more than 4 years. I was doing the same tasks on a regular basis. Although we received different projects from time to time, it was very repetitive. So I have a desire to gain new experiences and learn new skills. I believe having a variety of experience and skills is good for my career so I made the decision to leave my current job. 

This is simple and direct.  It answers the question without including unnecessary excuses.  It also shows your desire to grow, learn more, and improve yourself.  This is a good indication of a good employee - one who is curious to learn and has not stagnated.

For some more examples and tips, have a read of this article - Why Are You Leaving Your Job?

We are halfway through my 10 part blog. In my next post I will delve into the extremely tricky - 'What are your salary expectations?'. Look forward to having you next time!