Why are you leaving (or did you leave) this position

I want to give you a quick and easy way to get started preparing for your job interview.

Wouldn't it be great if you knew exactly what a hiring manager would be asking you in your next interview?

If you’d prefer to get started with a free resource before paying for a coach or a program, this tutorial is designed to get you up and running with the basics for acing your next interview.

Why are you leaving (or did you leave) this position?

1. Answer structure

Give a main reason why are you leaving last job then explain this reason.

Reason samples:

• Applying for a more challenging position.
• Having a chance to work in a larger and more robust organization.
• Opportunity to work in a more technologically advanced environment.
• Salary increase.
• Applying for a more senior position.
• Termination of contract (date).
• Change of profession or area of expertise.
• Further education.
• Travel.

2. Answer tips

• Be concise: Give a 2-3 sentences brief and honest response. Rambling may seem that you are trying to justify your reasons. Always be direct and focus your answer based on the future, sounding positive and clear about your goals.

• No clichés please: No overused phrases like “there is no room for growth”. Though it’s a positive answer as you are ready for more responsibilities, employers may read it as de-motivated. Without stating grievances, talk about opportunities you’re seeking out.

• Don’t raise red flags: Steer clear of citing money or a shorter commute as your reason for seeking a new job. These answers are like alarm bells to recruiters and they might get put off thinking that you are fishing for a counteroffer to win a higher salary.

• Don’t badmouth your employer: Criticizing your employer is an obvious faux pas showing a lack of maturity that reflects poorly on you.

3. Answer samples

Answer sample 1

There isn’t room for growth with my current employer and I’m ready to move on to a new challenge to grow my career. After several years in my last position, I’m looking for an company where I can contribute and grow in a team-oriented environment.

Answer sample 2

I quite appreciate the experience I have earned from my previous positions, but since I have to move back to the state, I decided that it was the right time to leave and seek new challenges. I am stil on good trems with my boss and coworkers though.
You should always have some questions for your interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the position. Prepare a minimum of seven questions, some which will give you more information about the job, and some which delve deeper into the culture and goals of the company.

Top 7 interview questions and answers.

Explain how you would be an asset to this organization

You should be anxious for this question. It gives you a chance to highlight your best points as they relate to the position being discussed. Give a little advance thought to this relationship.

What is your greatest strength?

Numerous answers are good, just stay positive. A few good examples: Your ability to prioritize, Your problem-solving skills, Your ability to work under pressure, Your ability to focus on projects, Your professional expertise, Your leadership skills, Your positive attitude

What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year?

Try to include improvement activities that relate to the job. A wide variety of activities can be mentioned as positive self-improvement. Have some good ones handy to mention.

What experience do you have in this field?

Speak about specifics that relate to the position you are applying for. If you do not have specific experience, get as close as you can.

What kind of salary do you need?

A loaded question. A nasty little game that you will probably lose if you answer first. So, do not answer it. Instead, say something like, That’s a tough question. Can you tell me the range for this position? In most cases, the interviewer, taken off guard, will tell you. If not, say that it can depend on the details of the job. Then give a wide range.

Describe a typical work week for you.

Interviewers expect a candidate for employment to discuss what they do while they are working in detail. Before you answer, consider the position you are applying for and how your current or past positions relate to it. The more you can connect your past experience with the job opening, the more successful you will be at answering the questions.

It should be obvious that it’s not a good idea talk about non-work related activities that you do on company time, but, I’ve had applicants tell me how they are often late because they have to drive a child to school or like to take a long lunch break to work at the gym.

Keep your answers focused on work and show the interviewer that you’re organized (“The first thing I do on Monday morning is check my voicemail and email, then I prioritize my activities for the week.”) and efficient.

Do you have any questions for me?

Always have some questions prepared. Questions prepared where you will be an asset to the organization are good. How soon will I be able to be productive? and What type of projects will I be able to assist on? Are examples.

In reviewing these responses, please remember that they are only examples. Please do not rehearse them verbatim or adopt them as your own. They are meant to stir your creative juices and get you thinking about how to properly answer the broader range of questions that you will face.