Why Did You Leave Your Current Employer
Why Did You Leave?
One of the most common interview questions is, “Why do you want to leave your current employer?” There are many old adages that apply here: “Misery loves company” and “honesty is the best policy” spring to mind. While it is human nature to complain, vent and whine, be careful when and where you do this.
Sadly, some people just want or need to complain all the time. And complete and total honesty is not always the best response.
If you have a job with a miserable boss, coworkers, environment, culture or something is bothering you and you just need to get it off your chest, that’s one thing. But as much as you might feel better about letting it out, don’t do it all the time and be very careful when and to whom you share. And remember not everyone wants to hear why you want to leave your job.
It’s fine to tell your best friend, a family member, a coworker who shares your point of view, or a counselor. Of course you have to be careful with the coworker confidante because that might backfire on you when your coworker starts sharing your point of view with others in the office.
If you easily fall into the routine of venting about work, you need to be extra careful when you go on an interview. At some point you will be asked why you left a previous job or why you want to leave where you work now. This is not the time to dump out every horrible thing that has ever happened to you.
Figure out why you want to leave and word it in the most polite and precise way possible. Short, to the point, professional and non-defensive reasons are the best way to respond. Even if you need to leave because your boss is chasing you around your desk with a meat cleaver, you want to say something less obnoxious and perhaps a tiny bit less honest.
Perhaps you’re looking for an opportunity with growth potential, new and/or different challenges, a shorter commute, a chance to work in a different industry or a more stable work environment.
Even if it’s true; saying your boss assigns everyone in the company days and times to babysit her toddler during work hours, it isn’t going to make a very good impression. And while that is not the strangest reason I’ve heard for leaving a company, who would believe you?