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How to explain reasons for leaving a job

29 Jan 2025

When it comes to job interviews, one of the most common and potentially challenging questions you'll face is, “Why do you want to leave your current job?” Your response  can significantly impact the interviewer’s perception of you, so it’s essential to approach it thoughtfully. Here’s a guide to help you explain your reasons for leaving a job effectively. 

Why do you want to leave your current job? 

When explaining why you want to leave your current job, it’s important to recognise that while there may be numerous reasons behind your decision, not all are suitable for discussion in an interview. Some reasons, like personal conflicts or dissatisfaction with management, might be perceived negatively by potential employers. Instead, focus on positive, career-oriented reasons that align with your professional growth and aspirations. 

Why employers want to know why you left a job 

Employers ask why you left your previous job to gain insight into your work history and assess your fit for the role they are offering. Understanding your reasons helps them gauge whether your motivations align with their organisational culture and if you’re likely to be satisfied in the new position. Your response can reveal how you handle challenges, conflicts, and transitions professionally, and it helps them identify any recurring patterns or issues in your career. Additionally, knowing your motivations provides employers with a clearer picture of your career goals and whether their role will meet your expectations. Overall, this question helps employers evaluate your stability, professionalism, and potential fit within their organisation. 

Personal reasons for leaving a job 

Another reason to specify your reasons for leaving a job could be  related to seeking new challenges, wanting to develop new skills, pursuing better career advancement opportunities, or aligning with a company that shares your values. Additionally, you might discuss the desire for a role with greater responsibility, a shift to a different industry or function, relocation for personal reasons, or seeking a work environment that better supports work-life balance. By framing your departure in terms of constructive and forward-looking motives, you demonstrate a proactive and professional mindset. 

7 reasons for leaving a job 

Moving to a new place 

Relocating to a new city or region often means finding a job in the new area. This move could be driven by personal reasons such as family commitments, a partner's job transfer, or the pursuit of new lifestyle opportunities. It’s important to find a role that fits well within the new geographic area to avoid long commutes and to ensure a smooth transition into the new community. 

Looking to grow in your field 

Professional growth is a common reason for leaving a job. If you feel that you have reached the peak of your current role or that the position no longer offers opportunities for advancement, seeking new roles with higher responsibilities or specialised functions can help you develop further expertise. This might involve pursuing roles with a leadership component, advanced technical challenges, or projects that push the boundaries of your current skill set. 

Interested in more challenging work duties 

Feeling underutilised or bored with your current responsibilities can lead to seeking a job with more complex or demanding tasks. A desire for challenging work often stems from a need to stay engaged, motivated, and intellectually stimulated. This could involve roles that offer strategic responsibilities, require innovative problem-solving, or involve significant project management. 

Ready for a change in environment 

Sometimes, the work environment itself can become a factor in deciding to leave a job. This might include dissatisfaction with company culture, lack of alignment with organisational values, or a work environment that doesn’t support your preferred work style. Seeking a different environment can mean finding a workplace with a more collaborative culture, flexible work arrangements, or a healthier work-life balance. 

Changing careers 

A career change might be prompted by a shift in personal interests, goals, or market conditions. Transitioning to a new industry or field can offer the chance to pursue a passion or a role that better fits your skills and ambitions. This often requires additional training or education but can lead to greater job satisfaction and alignment with long-term career goals. 

Looking to work in a different industry 

A desire to work in a different industry can stem from evolving interests, market opportunities, or the pursuit of a new professional challenge. This transition often involves leveraging existing skills in a new context or acquiring new expertise relevant to the industry you are moving into. It can provide fresh perspectives and opportunities that better match your personal and professional goals. 

Made redundant or let go of 

Being made redundant or being let go of can be a result of company restructuring, financial difficulties, or role redundancy. This situation often requires looking for new opportunities that align with your skills and career goals. It’s important to address this transition professionally, focusing on how you can apply your experience to new roles rather than the circumstances of the departure. 

 

How to explain leaving a job for mental health  

Discussing mental health as a reason for leaving a job can be a sensitive topic, yet it's an important aspect of maintaining overall wellbeing and career satisfaction. When addressing this topic, it’s essential to strike a balance between honesty and professionalism. Here’s how to approach explaining a departure due to mental health considerations: 

 

1. Frame it positively: emphasise that prioritising your mental health was a proactive choice for long-term well-being.  For example: “I decided to leave my previous role to focus on my wellbeing, ensuring I’m fully prepared to contribute effectively in my next position.” 
2. Highlight personal growth: Share how this experience led to personal growth and a clearer career direction. You might say: “Focusing on my mental health has provided valuable insights into my professional needs, and I’m excited to bring this renewed perspective to a new role.” 
3. Focus on future goals: Redirect the conversation towards how the new role aligns with your career aspirations. For instance: “This opportunity aligns well with my career goals and offers a supportive environment, which is crucial for my success.” 
4. Keep it brief and professional: Offer a concise explanation without delving into too much detail. For example: “I took time to address my personal wellbeing and am now eager and prepared to take on new challenges.” 
5. Avoid negative language: Steer clear of negative comments about your previous job. Instead, focus on the positive outcome. You might say: “I realised that my previous role wasn’t the best fit for my needs, and I’m now focused on finding a position that supports both my career goals and health.” 
6. Show readiness and enthusiasm: Demonstrate how this period has prepared you for the new role. For example: “This time has strengthened my resolve, and I’m excited to bring fresh energy and focus to this opportunity.” 
7. Reassure your fit for the role: Conclude by affirming your suitability for the new position. For example: “I’m confident that the insights gained have prepared me to excel in this role, and I’m enthusiastic about contributing to your team.” 

By presenting your reason for leaving succinctly and positively, you can convey readiness for new challenges while maintaining a professional demeanour. 

How to Answer ‘Why Are You Leaving Your Job?’ 

 

1. Be honest but diplomatic 

When explaining your reasons for leaving a job,  it’s important to frame your reasons diplomatically. Avoid negative comments about your current employer, colleagues, or work environment. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your decision to move on. 

For instance, if you're leaving because of a lack of advancement opportunities, you might say, "I’ve appreciated my time at [Company], but I’m seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth that align more closely with my career goals." 

 2. Highlight career growth 

One of the most effective ways to explain your departure is to emphasise your desire for career growth. Employers are often impressed by candidates who are motivated to advance their careers. If your reason for leaving is to pursue a position that offers more responsibility or aligns with your career aspirations, make this clear. 

Example:  "I am looking to leave my current position to find a role where I can leverage my skills in [specific area] more effectively and contribute to a team with a focus on [desired industry or function]." 

3. Focus on positive aspects 

Frame your departure in a way that highlights positive aspects of your professional journey. Instead of dwelling on what didn’t work out in your current job, discuss what you’re looking forward to in your new role. This shows that you are forward-thinking and focused on opportunities rather than problems. 

Example: "While I’ve enjoyed my time at [Company], I am excited about the opportunity to join [New Company] because of its innovative approach and the chance to work on projects that align with my skills and interests." 

 4. Prepare for the question 

Being prepared to answer the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?" can help you respond confidently and professionally. Practise your response to ensure it is clear and concise. Aim to deliver an answer that reflects your positive outlook and readiness for new challenges. 

Example: "I’ve found that the role I’m in is not quite what I expected when I first joined. I am looking for a position where my skills in [specific area] can be fully utilised, and where the role aligns more closely with my career goals." 

5. Be future-focused 

Finally, focus on your future goals rather than dwelling too much on the past. Employers are interested in how you will contribute to their organisation and what you bring to the table. By focusing on how the new role aligns with your long-term career objectives, you demonstrate that you are forward-thinking and committed to making a meaningful impact. 

Example: "I’m excited about the opportunity to join [New Company] because it offers a chance to work on cutting-edge projects and advance my career in a direction that aligns with my professional goals and interests." 

By focusing on career growth, highlighting positive aspects, and preparing a well-thought-out response, you can effectively address this common interview question and make a strong impression.