Q: WHY DID YOU LEAVE YOUR PREVIOUS ROLE?
This interview question can be awkward. But it’s important to remember that your prospective employer is simply trying to understand that you left your position with good reason and that you’re not likely to walk out on them at the first hurdle.
Before your interview, you should think about why it was the right time to move on from your last role. Even if it was due to conflict or a toxic culture, there are ways to articulate yourself without being negative.
A Hiring Manager is going to know that the role wasn’t exactly what you wanted, otherwise you wouldn’t be looking to leave. This isn’t the time to start bad-mouthing your previous employer, but instead positioning it in a way that shows your ambition and how it matches up with the role you’re applying for.
Based on the interview feedback we’ve received from the clients we work with, here are a few pointers to help you answer the question: why did you leave your last role?
POTENTIAL ANSWER RESPONSES:
“I am ready to take on additional responsibility.” Employers want to know you’re ambitious and dedicated, not that you want to leave because you’re looking for an easy route. Explain that room for growth was somewhat limited and that you have professionally outgrown the role. This is the perfect time to explain the sort of skills you’d like to build upon and how this company will support it.
“I want to progress down a particular route.” Utilise a part of the job description that initially attracted you to the role. You could, for example, say something along the lines of “my previous company is focused on [a certain aspect], and I am interested in expanding my knowledge within [a certain aspect] of the new company. This can then open up a conversation about why you are applying for this role.
“I’m really passionate about company culture.” If the company you’re interviewing for is all about culture, great values, and good work/life balance, this is a great way to bring up your aligning values and start a conversation around the company’s vision. Companies are constantly moving towards a different approach to work, where culture is a key aspect of hiring.
Your answers should be honest and straightforward so the interviewer has nothing that they feel they need to probe on. It would definitely help to practice beforehand so that you are clear and articulate.
- Written by Shannon Matthews
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