Why do you want to leave your current job?

Disciplines > Job-finding > Interview questions > Why do you want to leave your current job?

The question | What they are looking for | How to answer | See also

The question

What's wrong with where you are now?

What they are looking for

Interviewers are often concerned with your reasons for leaving a job as this may indicate whether and when you are likely to leave the new job.

They will look for and reject people who are easily bored and who are not likely to work consistently and hard. The ideal candidate is usually one who has outgrown the current job and who is looking for a new challenge somewhere where they will stay several years at least.

How to answer

Do not give money as a primary motive as this makes you look mercenary. Also do not give negative reasons such as not liking the people.

Link the reasons for leaving with reasons for joining the target company.

I am qualified as a company auditor and was spending most of my time doing basic accounting. When I saw you needed an auditor, I jumped at the chance of getting back to doing what I love most.

A common reason for moving is personal development, though do be careful to show that you have the skills thay are seeking now.

I have been managing a small department which is now running smoothly. I think I'm ready now to take on a larger department.