How to Answer, “Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Role?”
What you will find in this blog:
- Why do recruiters and hiring managers ask why you want to leave your current role?
- What is a good answer to this question?
- Why do you want to leave your current role?
In an interview you want to provide solid answers to questions and come across as the best candidate.
When you are prepping for your interview, you should be developing answers to anticipated questions about your experience and how it aligns with the current role.
One question which might catch you off guard is, “Why do you want to leave your current role?” It is very important that you have an appropriate answer to this question.
Why do recruiters and hiring managers ask why you want to leave your current role?
Recruiters and hiring managers ask why you are looking to leave your current role to gauge your motivations and longevity. They are looking for a professional answer that gives insight into your interest in the offered position, framed as your reason for leaving.
Most recruiters will want your answer to be some type of growth motivation, as opposed to leaving because you are unhappy with some other aspect of your current situation. If you say you are leaving because you are unhappy, the recruiter or manager might worry that you could leave their company as well.
What does a good answer to why you are leaving your current role sound like?
Looking forward and growth – Provide a reason for leaving that has to do with your upward career movement and expresses the desire for additional learning, new challenges, or taking on more responsibility.
Example: I saw this role and knew it was a great opportunity. I really enjoy my work and think the new challenge of adding XYZ aspect is very appealing. I would like to grow my management skills, and becoming a leader for your company would be an ideal next step in my career growth.
Values and goals alignment – Another reason to leave your current role might be because you are excited about the interviewing company’s values and goals and want to be a part of fulfilling those missions.
Example: I really love that your company focuses on a mission to have zero environmental impact. That care for our environment is important to me, and I think that values alignment would make this a fantastic place for long-term employment.
Life fit – You might have moved to a new area, require a different schedule, or some other work/life balance need.
Example: I recently moved to this area so I am obviously looking for a role close to my new home. I liked my previous company, but with the move I was unable to keep that position. I am looking to start with a company in this area where I can grow and become a valued team member.
Professional – Be sure to answer in a professional manner. This means avoid speaking poorly of your current manager, team, or company. Also, avoid discussing low pay, poor benefits, or mismatched company culture as reasons for your transition. Even if these are motives for your search, do not share that with the recruiter or hiring manager as a reason for applying.
Why do you want to leave your current role?
Answering this question can be tricky. It might be tempting to say your current boss is a micromanager, or that you are looking for increased pay or better benefits. I would caution you against using these types of reasons.
To make the best impression and show the recruiter or hiring manager that you are a good match, practice answers which show a growth mentality and demonstrate that you could be a solid, long-term hire. This will put you in an excellent light and show that you understand the position or that you will fit into the company culture.
Connect with me to learn more about my interview prep services. We can practice answers to a variety of questions as they pertain to your specific experience as well as general interview questions.