How to answer "Why do you want to leave?"
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Anonymous
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I had an interview recently that asked this question and I have another interview lined up, so I'd love some advice on how best to answer. In truth my current job is fine - not sunshine and roses but definitely nothing terrible either, other than some office politics that I would really rather not get into during an interview. I'm just looking to shake things up - get new experiences in a new environment. I mean I've been at the same company for 11 years.
Well, OK, and sometimes my current supervisor has some unreasonable expectations of me, and I'm getting a bit stretched thin in terms of my job duties. Is that the kind of thing an interviewer would like to hear, though? My instincts say no. |
Anonymous
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Why not just say what you said in your first paragraph...
"I've been at my company for eleven years and I enjoy the work, but would like to broaden my experience to [list what potential job is about here] and grow in [list what potential new company does] areas. I believe this job will give me the growth and new experiences I'm looking for. |
Anonymous
| I'd say pivot and talk about why you want to join the new organization, and what it means for your career. Avoid a negative response at all costs. You want to be the upbeat positive new hire, not the Debbie Downer bring bad energy... My $0.02... |
Anonymous
| What the PP said. You can also say you're looking for something that's a better fit for your strengths. Completely legitimate reason. |
Anonymous
So that's what you say. Do not get into problems with your supervisor or office politics if you don't need to. "I've been at the same company for 11 years, and I'd like to gain some new experience in a new environment." |
Anonymous
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"I've enjoyed my time at x company/organization and I have learned a lot. I'm looking to move because I'm ready for some new challenges (and maybe say something positive about why you want this position/organizaiton/company).
Avoid saying anything negative at ALL costs. Focus on future, and be positive. In my experience, this is can be a question to decipher whether a candidate might be a problem employee, and if you say anything negative about your current employer, they will wonder whether it's actually your fault. |
Anonymous
+1 |
Anonymous
| Wow, thanks everyone. This is great. I totally agree I do not want to get into anything negative. I'm afraid I did that a little bit in the first interview, which is why I came here for advice. I'll take your suggestions and just focus on a desire for new experiences with a new company. |
Anonymous
| You might also add that you've always admired XYZ company and was waiting for the right position to open up in order to apply. It especially helps if you can drop a name or two of former colleagues who work at the company - and that you would like to work with them again. |
Anonymous
| OP, if you frame it as wanting to grow in your career, you will always look good. The focus is on you, not your company. |