Why do you want to leave your current job? Sounds familiar, right? It is perhaps the most commonly asked question by hiring managers, as they intend to gain insights into your professionalism, work ethic, experiences, and motivations behind a new job.

But answering it can be a challenge. No worries. Here, I have enlisted a few sample answers for why you want to leave your current job, so you are better equipped to respond.

Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Job?

The first thing an interviewer asks you is about the reason for you leaving your current manager. Here, the hiring person is usually interested in finding out more about your work ethic, motivations, and reasons for seeking new opportunities. Hence, to effectively respond, you may consider the following tips.

  • Do not get stuck in the past and focus on the future.
  • Be sincere about your reason for leaving. While doing so, be professional and refrain from negative speaking.
  • Highlight how the reason you are leaving can help you as an individual and the company you are interviewing with.
  • Anticipate the questions and be prepared to answer in advance.

Reason For Leaving or Wanting To Leave

The key to finding the right reason for leaving the job is taking your time and articulating your motivations. Some common reasons might be the following.

  • Limited growth potential is one common answer, as passionate people are looking for new challenges.
  • Unstable leadership is yet another reason why you want to leave your job.
  • The third common reason for leaving a job is poor work-life balance. If your mental peace and job satisfaction is important for you, feel free to communicate it to the interviewer.
  • Though rarely, people want to explore a new field or industry. In such a case, try to focus on the future and frame your answer in a way that makes you look excited yet practical. Do not get stuck on the past and discuss what kind of change you need.
  • Last but not least, incompatibility with the company’s culture can also be a reason why you don’t feel productive in your current role.
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Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Position Sample Answer

In this section, I have tried to frame a few sample answers for each scenario explained below. Let’s have a look at them.

Case 1: You want to explore jobs for career growth.

Sample Answer: I’ve been searching for spaces to grow and advance my skill set, which is why I am up exploring new opportunities, as I believe my current role is not able to provide that.

Case 2: You find the leadership unstable or mismanaged.

Sample Answer: I am looking for an opportunity that allows me to work in a collaborative setup. or

I want to join a role where I have a greater impact on the success of the team.

Case 3: Your work-life balance at your current job is poorly managed.

Sample Answer: Due to recent organizational changes, the work hours and responsibilities in my current role have also shifted. Hence, my current role no longer aligns with my professional goals. I believe a new position can help me achieve stability and is the right step for me in the long run.

Case 4: You want to explore a new field or career.

Sample Answer: After giving several years of service to my current industry, I have developed an interest in switching to a different field. I completely value the experiences I have built all these years. And, I believe my skills and knowledge are transferable, which makes me a perfect candidate for the new industry.

Case 5: You do not feel compatible with the company’s culture or values.

Sample Answer: I would like a job opportunity where it feels like I am making a difference. And for now, I don’t think my skills are being used for this purpose, which is why I feel like this role suits me best.

Final Thoughts

Employees quit their jobs for several reasons, from personal growth to monetary benefits, career advancement, or a peaceful work environment. And, it is the most commonly asked question in an interview. So, it is always better to take your time and reflect on your own reasons, as you don’t sound negative or vague.

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