“Why did you leave your last job?”
As an interview coach, I often hear job seekers express anxiety about this question. It can feel tricky to answer, especially if your departure wasn’t under ideal circumstances.
You might even consider saying something like, “I signed an NDA,” advice that went viral on TikTok for addressing employment gaps and other career challenges. However, as I shared with Fortune, this approach is a major mistake; you don’t want to begin your relationship with an employer with a lie.
So, how do you best tackle this common interview question, and what mistakes should you avoid? Keep reading for my top strategies and sample responses.
Can Employers Ask Why You Left Your Last Job?
Yes, employers can ask why you left your last job. They may also confirm whether you’re eligible for rehire during an employment reference check.
This question isn’t just about their own curiosity; it’s a way for them to assess potential red flags in candidates.
Ask yourself why they might be inquiring in the first place. They’re likely wondering:
- Were there performance issues?
- Are you a flight risk?
- Did you leave on good terms?
Understanding the interviewer’s perspective can help you craft a thoughtful response that reassures them without consuming the conversation.
Should You Be Honest About Why You Left Your Previous Job?
As Judge Judy famously says, “You don’t need a good memory if you tell the truth!” This advice rings true when explaining why you left a job: you don’t want to be dishonest about your departure, as this choice can come back to haunt you later.
That said, honesty doesn’t mean you need to divulge unnecessary details. Keep your response concise and professional. Less is often more when it comes to explaining why you left your last role.
Can I Say I Left My Last Job For Personal Reasons?
You might be tempted to say you left your previous role for “personal reasons.” While this answer may suffice in some cases, a seasoned interviewer might press further to ensure there aren’t underlying concerns, such as whether you’re unreliable or a flight risk. This is particularly true for executive and C-suite interviews, since stability is critical at this level.
It’s usually better to provide a more specific explanation that addresses their potential concerns. For example, instead of simply saying you had “personal reasons,” you could say something like, “I needed to step away temporarily to address temporary family matters that are now 100% resolved.”
What To Say When Asked, “Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?”
So, how should you respond when asked this common interview question? Your answer should address two key points:
1. Explain why you left your last role.
Start by alleviating any concerns about your work history. If you left your last employer by choice, state this clearly!
This might sound like:
- “I was ready for new challenges that weren’t available in my previous company.”
- “I wanted to explore opportunities that align more closely with my long-term career goals.”
2. Share what you’re looking for in your next opportunity.
Once you’ve addressed why you left, pivot the conversation toward the future. Explain what excites you about this new opportunity and how it aligns with your career aspirations. For example:
- “I’m particularly drawn to Disneyland because of your commitment to creating magical experiences. My experience at Amazon allowed me to become a real expert in customer obsession.”
Many job seekers forget this second step, which is a missed opportunity to steer the conversation toward what makes you the perfect fit for the role.
Don’t let the discussion linger on your past. Instead, use it as an opportunity to highlight your excitement for what’s next.
What Are Good Reasons For Leaving A Job?
Let’s dive into some reasons you may share for having left a company:
- Seeking growth opportunities that weren’t available at your last organization.
- Looking for a role that aligns more closely with your career goals.
- Taking time off for professional development.
- Deciding to take a sabbatical.
- Relocating to a new area.
- Seeking better work-life balance.
- Addressing personal matters (if framed thoughtfully).
Regardless of which reason you choose to share, always clarify that leaving was your decision.
Final Thoughts
Remember that you don’t need to divulge every detail of your work history during an interview. The goal of the conversation is to alleviate a prospective employer’s potential concerns and demonstrate that you’re the best fit for the role.
If you’re feeling stuck as you prepare for your interview, or would like the guidance of a trained professional as you get ready for your big day, please don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule a consultation. I’m here for you! You’ve got this!
