How to Answer “Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Job?”

An interview is the crossing line between you and your potential new journey. That is why acing a job interview is crucial. To help you overcome your anxiety about interviews, we have curated various answers to the question, Why do you want to leave your current job? There may be multiple reasons why a person might leave a job. It could be for higher wages, greater chances for advancement, or additional training within the role. Whatever the reason may be, job change can be a frightening thing. Communicating your reasons for change in an interview can seem even more daunting. Read this blog to get an idea of how to talk about your reasons for changing jobs professionally.

Why Recruiters Ask, “Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Job?”

Employers generally prefer to hire candidates who demonstrate a commitment to long-term service. Therefore, recruiters often seek to understand your reasons for wanting to leave your current job. Here are some reasons why employers may enquire about your motivation for a job change:

1. Check Compatibility with Role: Recruiters usually ask this question to assess if you are a good fit for the position and to know how well-suited you are for the role.
2. Value Alignment: Recruiters want to hire a person who can directly align with the company’s values and goals. So, recruiters ask this question to know how well you fit the company’s culture. 
3. Career Insights: Recruiters ask this question to understand how the position fits into your career aspiration. They use this question to gain insight into your career ambitions. It also gives them an idea of how long you can work with them and how far you will be willing to go for the organization.
4. Red Flag: The question enables recruiters to spot potential character deficiencies or red flags. Many behaviours are not accepted in the workplace, among which is having constant disputes with teammates or management. Given that problems in the workplace are inevitable, it will be inappropriate to mention if you have a conflict with your previous management or teammates.

Sample Answer for ‘Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Job?’

We have a list of sample answers for you to prepare in advance for the interview question regarding the reason for the current job change. Here are various professional responses to the interview question about why you want to leave your current job:

1. Relocation

Relocating from the current workplace is a common reason why people leave their jobs. Explaining how relocating affects the dynamic of your current job is important. However, keep it professional. Do not give much personal information.

Sample Answer: I am going to get married next month. My fiance works and resides in the same city as my home. As much as I love my current job, regrettably, the company does not have a branch here in my home city or close by. For this reason. I would like to relocate to my home city and find a suitable job. The changeover will go well with my new life.

2. Termination of Contract

Many companies hire on a contractual basis. Contractual employees seek new prospects once the contract period is over. In this case, when talking about a job change, highlight how wonderful it was working with your previous employer and how you are seeking to secure a permanent position in a new domain.

Sample Answer: While it has been an exciting experience working with the company for the past 2 years. I would like to secure a more permanent position and stable job since my contract is coming to an end. Based on your job vacancy, I believe I have the necessary skills and experience to succeed in this position.

Also Read: How Did you Hear About the Position

3. You Desire a Fresh Start

The desire for something new may arise from various reasons that are unique to each person. However, keep your remarks brief as you express your desire for a new beginning. Your prospective employer doesn’t need to know the specifics of your choice. Instead, you should communicate to them how your present position is not as appealing as it once was and why you’re looking for a change.

Sample Answer: I have been working with the XYZ industry for 12 years now. It has been a great experience. I have learned and acquired a productive skill set working with XYZ. However, I think it’s time for me to seek something new and more challenging. I think applying for this job will expose me to new challenges and learning experiences. I also believe that I am well suited for the role.

4. Job Insecurity

It is okay to explain to your recruiter that your current job is not sustainable. You may experience greater job insecurity if you work for a financially troubled organization. Startups, for instance, have the potential to be incredibly successful but also have a high risk of failure. However, try not to sound bitter or spiteful. Be calm, collected, and professional with your response.

Sample Answer: As much as I love my job, I have come to realize it is not sustainable. For the past 4 months, my company has laid off 25 workers. I would love to work in an environment where there are functional cooperative structures. From the job posting, I believe this is a good opportunity for me, as I am well qualified for the role.

5. Incompatibility with Career Goal

It is understandable that sometimes we choose a job because it’s what is available. It is okay to explain to your recruiter that at the time of accepting the job, it was well-suited. However, now you want to advance your career and the current job doesn’t make room for that. Part-time jobs and work-from-home jobs can be a good idea for people looking to change careers because of this reason.

Sample Answer: Working with XYZ company has been an amazing experience. I have been with them for the past 2 years. However, I wish to advance my career now. Unfortunately, there’s no room for advancement in my current position. Based on your job vacancy, I think it’s the perfect fit for me and I have the experience to succeed in the position.

6. In Search for a Better Workplace

Wanting a better work environment doesn’t mean that the current job is bad. It could be that you need more time for your family or you need flexible work hours, which your current job does not provide. Explain to the recruiter your actual reason for wanting to switch workplaces.

Sample Answer: At the time I started working with (company name), I was newlywed. However, since then, I have had two kids, and they require more of my time. It has been great working with my current company. However, the work schedule is tight. Your company offers a flexible work schedule, which is well suited to my current situation. In addition to that, I possess the qualifications for the position.

7. Want a Shorter Commute

How long you have worked at a job is irrelevant if your commute causes you discomfort. A straightforward explanation for why you may wish to leave your current employment can be to commute more conveniently. Simply tell the recruiter that you require a location closer to your home and that this current position is ideal.

Sample Answer: My job with (company name) spans more than three years. Although working with them has been wonderful, sadly, the commute from my house to the office is fairly long. I have a three-hour commute to and from work. I don’t want to move out of this city because I live with my wife and kids, who are well-settled here. Given that the location of your current offer is closer to my house, which is ideal for my current circumstances, I am also qualified for the role. Thus, I wish to work at your establishment.

8. Burnout

Burnout is increasingly common in today’s fast-paced work environments, often resulting from prolonged stress and high workloads. If you have been experiencing burnout, it is important to communicate this professionally during your interviews. Make sure to highlight your need for a healthier work-life balance. This can show potential employers are self-aware and proactive about your well-being.

Sample Answer: I have realized the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance to stay motivated and productive. I’m seeking a role in a collaborative and positive environment that will allow me to perform at my best while fostering long-term well-being.

9. Desire for Better Compensation

Compensation can play an important factor in your job satisfaction. If you find that your current salary does not reflect your skills, experience, or market standards, it is reasonable to seek positions that offer better financial rewards. When discussing this reason, try to focus on the value you bring to an organization and how fair compensation is important for both parties.

Sample Answer: While I value the experience I have gained, I have realized that my current compensation does not align with the industry standards for my role. I am seeking a position that offers fair compensation reflective of my skills and contributions.

10. Pursuing Further Education or Skills Development

Further education or professional development can help you improve your career prospects significantly. If you are leaving your job to pursue additional training or qualifications, express how this decision aligns with your long-term career goals and how it will benefit your future employers.

Sample Answer: I have decided to leave my current position to pursue further education in my field. This will enable me to acquire new skills and knowledge that I can bring to future roles, including the one I am applying for.

Also Read: What is your Greatest Achievement

11. Desire for Entrepreneurial Pursuits

Some professionals leave their jobs to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams or start their own businesses. This can arise from a desire for independence, creativity, and the ability to shape their work environment. When discussing this reason, highlight your passion for entrepreneurship and how it aligns with your long-term goals.

Sample Answer: I have always had a passion for entrepreneurship, and after careful consideration, I have decided to leave my current position to focus on starting my own business. This decision allows me to pursue my vision and create something meaningful that aligns with my skills and interests.

12. Health Reasons

Sometimes, personal health issues or the need for better mental health support can lead an employee to leave their job. It is necessary to communicate this reason sensitively while focusing on your need for a healthier work-life balance or environment.

Sample Answer: Due to some health challenges I’ve faced recently, I have realized that I need to prioritize my well-being. I am looking for a role that offers a more supportive environment where I can manage my health effectively while contributing positively.

What Not to Say While Answering “Why do you want to change your current job?”

There are certain things you shouldn’t mention while answering “why do you want to change your current job”. We have made a list of them below:

1. Clash with your Boss

Experiencing conflict in the workplace is common but that shouldn’t be a reason why you should leave a job. Telling a recruiter you left a job based on a clash with your boss might send the wrong signal about you. It is expected that employees possess the skill of emotional intelligence and learn to manage conflicts in the workplace in healthy ways. 

2. Bad Company Policies

It is best to avoid bringing up the drawbacks of your current position because doing so might damage your reputation. Every business wants a worker who can quickly adapt to their new role and isn’t held back by their previous experiences. Be professional and straightforward with your response; don’t say more than what is necessary.

3. Financial Ground

Everyone knows that moving to a better job is based on benefits and incentives. However, you should never use this (financial ground) as your primary justification for quitting a job. Saying or implying that you are resigning because this income is higher is not appropriate. 

4. Do Not Sound Negative/Bitter

In an effort to impress a recruiter, applicants frequently make the error of disparaging a former coworker/employer. Regardless of how you feel about your current position, it is best to keep your emotions in check and be polite. There is no need to ramble or list several justifications for quitting present employment.

Tips for Explaining Why You Left Your Job

When discussing your reasons for leaving a job, it is important to communicate your thoughts clearly and positively. Here are some tips to help you effectively explain your departure during interviews or in professional conversations:

1. Be Honest but Tactful: While it’s important to be truthful about your reasons for leaving, avoid negative comments about your previous employer or colleagues. Focus on the positive aspects of your experience and what you learned rather than dwelling on frustrations or conflicts.
2. Frame Your Reasons Positively: Emphasize how your decision to leave was motivated by a desire for growth, new challenges, or better alignment with your career goals. 
3. Keep It Concise: When explaining your departure, aim for clarity and brevity. Provide enough context to convey your reasons without going into excessive detail. A short and focused explanation is often more impactful than a lengthy narrative.
4. Highlight What You Learned: Discuss the skills and experiences you gained in your previous role, even if challenging. This shows potential employers you are reflective and committed to personal growth. 
5. Practice Your Response: Before interviews, practice how you will explain your reasons for leaving. This will help you articulate your thoughts confidently and ensure you present yourself in the best light possible.
6. Align with Future Goals: Connect your reasons for leaving with your future career aspirations. Explain how the new opportunity aligns better with your long-term goals and how it will help you grow professionally. 
7. Prepare for Follow-Up Questions: Be ready for follow-up questions about your current job departure and address them calmly and confidently. This will demonstrate that you have thoughtfully considered your career path and are prepared for the next steps.

Conclusion

The decision to leave a job is personal. Therefore, you should be professional about your responses during an interview. ‘Why do you want to leave your current job?’ is a common interview question recruiters ask job candidates. Remember to focus on what the employer expects and how you can be an asset to their firm while answering the question. Be brief, simple, and confident with your response.