Explaining Why You Left The Last Job
Posted in Job Interview Tips
Getting asked about the reason you left your last job is a common yet toughest job interview question. Answering it wrongly could risk harming your candidacy. Even if you are employed, you may be asked by a prospective employer as to why you want to leave your current position.
As employees change jobs more often, hiring managers are increasingly concerned about a candidate's reason for leaving a job carrying into the next. Replacing employees is a very expensive task for employers, which is why they want to make sure that they are hiring people who would be worth the expenses.
Here are tips that can help you prepare for meeting with even the most skeptical interviewers.
Be concise - When asked about your reason for leaving your old job, a brief response will do. Prepare an answer that is between two to three sentences. Candidates who ramble on can sound as if they are trying to justify their answers or explain it away. Your best bet is to be honest, confident, and to the point.
Avoid clichés - One overused phrase that employed candidates offer is "there is no room for growth." Most candidates may see it as a positive because it sounds like they are ready for more responsibility. However, on the employer side, it translates into bored, tired, and unmotivated. Rather than explaining your grievances with your current or previous job, talk instead about opportunities you are seeking.
Be upfront about a job loss - If you were let go as part of a large company cutback, emphasize that a group of employees was laid off and give the exact number of job cuts. If you were laid off individually, say that you were laid off and leave it at that. Don't explain the layoff if you are not asked. However, if you were fired, assume responsibility for the situation and then explain what you learned from the experience.
Avoid raising red flags - Avoid citing more money or a shorter commute as your main reason for seeking a new job. If you list money as your main reason for leaving a job, the hiring manager may think you are fishing for a counteroffer to win a higher salary. Instead, focus on the merits of the position and how the position fulfills your needs.
Resist the urge to talk trash - Criticizing a past or current employer is a definite no-no. Such bad mouthing shows a lack of maturity that would reflect poorly on you. It also raises concerns that the candidate is difficult to get along with.
Prepare for follow-ups - Experienced recruiters often will probe a bit for a better understanding of your motives. Before an interview, ask yourself how this position fulfills a need you have at your current job. Research both the company and the position for which you are interviewing so you are well-prepared for these questions.
