Why did you leave your previous job? or Why do you want to leave your current job?
Tip: this is a type of question that you are likely to hear at any job interview. As there can be many reasons to quit your last job, including having a terrible boss, bad work environment or just simply being bored with routine tasks, it doesn't mean you have to tell your potential employer everything. That's why you need to think through and prepare a good answer in advance. The most valuable recommendation that you can use while answering this question is to focus only on positive factors and avoid having any negative remarks about your previous company or position (even if you have some, try to use neutral and polite language). Remember that the reasons of leaving the previous job can say a lot about your personality and work values, so, make sure that your answer is clear and has a positive effect.
Interviewer: Why did you leave your previous job?
Harry, 26, is applying for a position of a Store Manager: I really enjoyed working in my previous company. As you already know, I've made a valuable contribution to customer loyalty development and increasing sales while working as a Store Manager in that company, also I've been promoted several times. But now I feel the time has come for a change. I mean I am ready to work for a bigger company, which could offer more opportunities for growth. The position I'm applying for in your company would be ideal for me, as I could use all my skills and experience to manage a larger shop in a big national chain. It would allow me to use and develop my strengths in this sphere.
Interviewer: Why do you want to leave your current job?
Jane, 41, is applying for a position of a Chief Accountant in a big multinational: To be honest, I wasn't looking for a new position, but my former colleague, who works in Legal Department of your company, told me about a job opening in Financial Department. And I thought it would be an excellent opportunity for me to take advantage of. The job that you offer requires the same skills and qualifications that my current position, but in a bigger scale. So this could be a new challenge for me in my career. I'd like to manage a bigger accounting department and have higher level of responsibility. I'm sure that my experience and personal qualities will help me to succeed.
