Are you ready to discuss why you are applying for a new job? Hiring managers will be curious about why you want to change jobs. They want to hear that you are leaving for the right reasons – a better opportunity, more challenges, and growth in your career.
What the interviewer wants to know
Every question a hiring manager asks during the interview process is designed to determine if you are the right fit for the job. In this case, they are trying to assess whether you are someone who will thrive in the company. They are looking for signs that indicate you are someone who is building your career intentionally and that you can get along with your bosses, co-workers, and clients.
They won’t want to hear that you were terminated for legitimate reasons, or that you are leaving due to your hatred of your co-workers or employer, or anything that suggests you wouldn’t be successful in their organization.
How to answer the question “Why do you want to change jobs?”
Highlight the positive reasons you are targeting the job in their organization. Point out specific aspects of the work, company culture, and employer that align well with your interests and skills.
Shifting the focus toward the potential employer redirects the conversation indirectly from your past work experience to your strong potential as a future employee for them. It’s also a great way to show that you’ve done the necessary research about the company before the interview.
Examples of the best answers
Go into the interview with an answer that emphasizes why you want to join this organization and take on this particular role. Highlight the skills and experiences that make you a standout candidate – and make sure to be positive.
Example answer 1:
I had the lucky opportunity to land a job at a startup right after graduation, meaning I wore many hats from my very first day in the office. Now I am looking to grow my graphic design skills in a larger role.
Why it works: This answer expresses positivity toward a potentially challenging work environment while emphasizing that the candidate has the skills, experience, and attitude necessary to succeed in the new role.
Example answer 2:
I love helping writers develop. In my current job, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor numerous experts who possess the knowledge our readers need, but don’t have the writing experience to translate those ideas into print. I’m excited to do the same in a nonprofit environment where I can use my skills to give something back to my community.
Why it works: This answer shows that the candidate is collaborative and cares about helping others learn, and that they have honed their skills in their field and are looking for the next challenge. This answer also reflects a connection to the organization’s mission – something important in nonprofits.
Example answer 3:
I’ve been one of the top sellers at ABC Corp for three straight quarters, with sales increasing by more than 10% each quarter. But now that I’m in the Los Angeles area, I’m ready to utilize my skills in this market. I’ve always dreamed of working at XYZ Inc., and I was excited to see a perfect opportunity that aligns with my experience and abilities.
Why it works: While this answer mentions an external reason for changing jobs – in this case, moving to a new city – it also emphasizes that the candidate wants to work for this organization specifically. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who feel excited about this particular job – not just any job in the field.
Tips for giving the best answer
Frame your transition as a step forward in your career without speaking negatively about your current job. You can do this by pointing out aspects of the new job that seem more responsible. Even if the new job does not have a higher status, you can mention that you believe it will provide a foundation for future career advancement – after spending a suitable amount of time in the initial role with the employer and mastering it.
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Also mention that you feel the position you are applying for aligns more with your long-term career goals, which you should be prepared to discuss.
Incorporate positive nods to your current job in your answer, so it’s clear (or at least seems) that you are not running away from a bad situation. You are simply seeking to improve an already good standing. Of course, any negative references to management, salary, or working hours should be avoided.
Integrate some positive reflections about rewarding relationships with supervisors, coworkers, and clients whenever possible. You could describe the opportunities your company has provided you to develop your career, for example, or discuss a particularly rewarding experience with a client.
You might think about giving an external reason for leaving. You can point to factors such as moving to a more urban area or looking for a job closer to home.
What Not to Say
Do not say anything negative about your current employer, your boss, your coworkers, or your clients. The interviewer may assume you are the problem, not the people you are speaking poorly about. In any case, they will wonder if you would do the same in their company if hired.
If you mention an external reason for changing jobs, affirm that it is not the main reason. For example, if you are moving to a new city, that may be a contributing reason for your decision to change jobs, but it should not sound like the only reason for your interview decision.
The focus should always be on the fit of the job itself and how you can help the organization succeed.
Possible Follow-Up Questions
Why are you the right person for the job? Best answers: What is your greatest strength? Best answers: What is your greatest weakness?
Takeaways
Emphasize positive reasons: growth and opportunity = good. Negative aspects of the old job = bad.
Discuss your career path: Show this potential transition in the context of your entire career path.
Consider giving an external reason for the move: for example, if you are moving to a new city, that is an excellent reason to change jobs. But ensure it is not the only reason you mention.
Avoid sharing proprietary information: If it is known (publicly) that your current employer has a shrinking market share or other financial problems, you might allude to this after making a strong case for why the new job is a good fit. But avoid painting a negative picture of your current employer’s situation. A general reference to your current employer’s difficulties may be sufficient.
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/interview-questions-about-why-you-want-to-change-jobs-2061154
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