By
Chrissy Scivicque
You’re currently employed. You get a paycheck twice a month. It’s a sure thing.
Why then are you engaging in a job search? New jobs are risky and stressful. What circumstances have led you to choose the unknown over the known?
Your interviewer is undoubtedly thinking this and almost certainly
will ask you about it. A “bad” answer can kill your chances at getting
the job offer. A “good” answer can position you for success.
It might sound odd that this is a difficult question for many
interviewees. Obviously, you have your reasons for leaving - probably
more than a handful.
The problem is that sharing those reasons (the real ones) might give
your interviewer a negative impression, if not framed appropriately.
As an interviewee, you know that. You might find yourself spinning
around in a jumbled mess of vague explanations and platitudes. Your interviewer,
sensing your discomfort and the awkward attempt to skirt the question,
wonders what you’re hiding and slowly loses interest in you as a
candidate.
So there’s a delicate balance required. You want to be both
authentic and diplomatic. Your job is to steer clear of potential
landmines, while still providing a genuine response that resonates for
both you and the interviewer.
Here are some tips for how to do it.
1. Praise your current employer. Before anything else, start by offering a little praise for your current employer
just to show you’re not jaded and to frame the answer positively. Try
saying something like: “My current employer has given me some great
opportunities and I’m sorry to leave. But I’m also really excited about
the future.”
Notice that this statement isn’t overly flattering, and it lands
right back at the here and now - your enthusiasm for what’s next.
Interviewers like to hear this because it demonstrates your loyalty and
respect for the company, even though they obviously know you’re not
happy there. They see that you’re able to “play the game,” keep
emotions out of it and protect the image of the company even if and
when things don’t work out.
Interviewers view negative talk regarding your current employer as
gossip. If you’re out there badmouthing your company, the interviewer
thinks you could easily turn around and do the same to his or her
company in the future.
2. Avoid discussing people. Surveys show that the No. 1
reason people leave a job is because of other people. Interviewers
know that, but they don’t want to hear it. They know it takes two to
tango. Any discussion regarding difficulties with people will lead your
interviewer to wonder what your role was - and then you’re in the
danger zone.
Instead, talk about things. The same holds true if an interviewer asks
you a question like, “What is one thing you don’t like about your
current or last job?” Good answers revolve around things like outdated
policies, inefficient processes, slow technology, etc. Great answers
also focus on what you did to try to improve the situation.
3. Always focus on what you’re moving toward.
Remember that the past is old news. The future is why you’re sitting in
that interview. Keep your discussion centered on the fact that you’re
moving toward something new and exciting, not away from where you are.
This might require just a subtle shift in language but the impact is
enormous.
For example, instead of saying, “There are limited opportunities for
growth where I am,” try saying, “The opportunities for growth here
seem unlimited.”
4. Make it about self-improvement. Interviewers
love to know job candidates are interested in bettering themselves.
It’s a trait that indicates you will (potentially) be a long-term hire
and, with the right support, you could be someone who grows with the
company.
It’s always a good idea to make your career move about your desire
for self-improvement - whether you’re seeking career advancement
opportunities or the chance to grow a new set of skills.
Sure, there are times when you just need a change of pace. That’s
human nature. But saying that’s the sole reason for your move suggests
you might be easily bored or unable to create the experience that
serves you best in the workplace. Your interviewer wants to know that
you’ll be capable of productively working through those kinds of
“typical” challenges (like boredom and the feeling of being stuck in a
rut).
Always let your interviewer know
that you really did everything in your power to make it work with your
current employer. You’ve taken on additional responsibilities, sought
out new challenges, advanced as far as you can, etc. You don’t want to
be perceived as someone who is quick to jump ship when things don’t
immediately go your way. But there are certain things outside of your
control, and those are the ones that keep you from staying where you
are.
It’s almost guaranteed that your reason for leaving will be a point
of discussion in any job interview. Plan your response and practice it
aloud a few times so you’re prepared. With any luck, the conversation
will move on quickly and you’ll be able to focus on other, more
compelling topics.
Chrissy Scivicque, the founder of EatYourCareer.com,
believes work can be a nourishing life experience. As a career coach,
corporate trainer, and public speaker, she helps professionals of all
levels unlock their true potential and discover long-lasting career
fulfillment.
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