Tell Your Story: How to Answer the “Why Do You Want to Change Jobs?” Question

During your next interview, the hiring manager probably will ask why you are looking for a job change. They want to see whether you are leaving for a better opportunity, greater challenges, career growth or another positive reason. When discussing why you want to change jobs, you need to assure the interviewer you are leaving for the right reasons rather than to avoid a bad work environment. Find out how to confidently answer when asked why you want to change jobs.

What the Interviewer Is Looking For

The interviewer wants to determine whether you are the right candidate for the role. They want to know you’ll thrive with the company, build your career there, and get along with managers, colleagues, and clients. The interviewer does not want to hear you were fired for a justified reason, you don’t like your boss or co-workers, or you don’t plan on being with your next employer very long.

Appropriate Reasons for a Job Change

Provide positive reasons for wanting to change jobs. For instance, focus on what interests you most about working for the company. Mention examples of the job responsibilities,

company culture and the employer that align with your experience and interests. Perhaps you want to learn new skills, take on more responsibility, improve work-life balance or change careers. Show you did your homework on the organization as you subtly redirect the conversation from your past work experience to your potential as their newest hire. For instance, “I enjoyed developing my accounting skills at ABC Corporation. Now I’m eager to enhance my skills in a more senior role.” Or, “I was one of the top financial analysts for XYZ Company. I’m looking forward to taking on more challenges with your firm.”

Guidelines to Provide a Favorable Answer

Discuss your job change as a way to advance your career while keeping your current job in a positive light. For instance, point out which aspects of the new role offer more responsibility. Although it may not offer more status, it could be a starting point for future career progression. Or, the position may be more aligned with your long-term career goals, which you can provide examples of. Make positive references to your current position to show you want to improve a good situation, not run from a bad one. For instance, you may have rewarding relationships with managers, colleagues or clients. You might have been able to develop your career with your previous employer. Perhaps you had an especially meaningful experience with a client.

Keep Moving Forward

Above all, be prepared, be positive, and focus on what you are running toward, rather than from.  If you follow these pointers you will set yourself up to move forward in the interview process rather than being ruled out as a potential problem employee.