If you’re about to attend a job interview, a common question you can expect the interviewers to ask is: “Why do you want to leave your current job?’. Hiring managers often ask this type of question so they can learn more about what motivates you, and the things that are important to you in a job. It also shows them how you speak about previous employers, so it’s crucial to answer this question with clarity and professionalism. 

Here we discuss common reasons for leaving a job and how to positively explain them to a hiring manager. 

How should you frame your response? 

Firstly, write down the reasons you’re looking for a new job opportunity so that you are clear on your response. As you want to keep your response quite short for this question, choose one or two reasons that align with you professionally, rather than changes in your personal life that may have also affected your decision. 

You also want to respond in a positive manner, even if you’ve had negative experiences that pushed you to leave your current job. For example, try not to respond with, “I don’t like the company” or “I don’t like my manager” or being derogative in general about your previous experience. As this may lead the hiring manager to make unfair assumptions that you’re difficult to work with or unprofessional. Instead, explaining why you wish to move in terms of how the elements of the job, organisation or industry sector appeals to you, reinforces your excitement for the role. 

There has been a perceived stigma in the past for people changing jobs or re-entering the workforce, but this thankfully is declining. Furthermore, people changing jobs, companies, industries or careers is a lot more common. It’s ok to acknowledge it’s time for a change! 

Wherever you can, try to focus on the skills you have learnt in your current job and the positive relationships you have made when explaining your answer. 

So, what are some common reasons for leaving a job and how can you explain them? 

Reason 1: You’re no longer learning in your current job 

If your current job has stalled your learning and development, then you may want to move jobs to progress your learning. The key point you want to get across to the interviewer is that while you have learnt a range of skills in your current job, you now believe your skills and knowledge can be further enhanced in a new environment. 

For example, “Although I have learnt many skills in my current job such as X and Y, I’m now looking for a new opportunity where I can expand my skills and further my knowledge in …”, aligning with the job description or organisation. Upon researching your company and seeing your dedication to employee learning and development, I believe an opportunity here would enable me to do that.” 

Reason 2: There is no further career growth in your current job 

The desire to progress your career is a common reason for leaving a job. Depending on how organisations or specific teams within a company are structured, some may provide more growth opportunities than others. And although interviewers may understand this, getting your answer right is still crucial. 

For example, “Although I get along with my team extremely well, I have been in this position for X number of years, and there are no longer opportunities to grow within my team or the company itself. I believe this position with your company would provide me with greater responsibilities and an opportunity to progress my career further.” 

Reason 3: You are seeking greater work-life balance and flexibility 

In some cases, the reason for leaving a job may have nothing to do with the job itself, but rather the work environment no longer suiting your needs. Some people may find that their commute to work is hindering their work-life balance, or their current job no longer offers work from home options or flexible hours. If these are your reasons for leaving, try to explain it in a way that doesn’t reflect negatively on your current employer, but- emphasises that your own personal needs aren’t suited to their structure anymore.

For example, “Even though I enjoy the work I do, I’m currently seeking greater flexibility. I would love to work for your company as it will allow me to work from home a few days a week and is based much closer to where I live.” 

Reason 4: You are seeking a new career path or challenge

It is increasingly common for people to have several different jobs and careers throughout their life. Whether you want to change industries, or your career path entirely, this is another common reason why people begin searching for a new job. 

If you find yourself in this situation, you could say something such as: “Even though I love the work I do as a XY, the industry I currently work for is not where my passion lies. That’s why I’m looking for a new opportunity in this industry, where I can develop and expand my skills in a job that is more fulfilling and catered towards my interests and values.”     

Reason 5: Your position was made redundant or you were let go

Redundancy can be a cause for anxiety when trying to respond to this question. However, most employers will understand that it can be a traumatic experience for people and they need time. The best way to answer this question is to always be honest while avoiding unnecessary detail. Explain what you have learnt from the situation, and then direct the interviewer to why you want this opportunity and how you would be a good fit for the position. 

For example, “Unfortunately my position was made redundant due to the company restructuring that resulted in the loss of multiple roles, including mine. Since then, I’ve taken some time to reflect on the direction of my career, and I’ve started to search for new opportunities. I’m excited about this position because it fits my current skillset, values and will enable me to further pursue my career in the industry.” 



By framing your reasons for leaving in the right way, you can show your hiring manager that you are proactive and ready for a new opportunity. For further career advice and tips, check out our  career resources  or  contact Bayside Group today.