“Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?” Interview Answers

Navigating job interviews can be challenging, especially when you're leaving a bad workplace. In Malaysia, it's crucial to handle this question tactfully to maintain professionalism and secure your next role. Read this before you catch yourself venting to your potential employer.

By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM

Updated on 2024-06-06 at 3:56 AM

Question: “Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?”

Your interview is going well and the recruiter asks why you’re leaving your current job.

What do you say when you find yourself trying to leave a less-than-pleasant workplace?

Our no-brainer advice: Be honest but stay respectful. You don’t even have to provide more details than you’re comfortable with.

Focus on what you’re looking for in a job or work environment and why it’s important to you. Then, steer the conversation back to why you’re interested in the company you are interviewing with.

Tips on Answering “Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?”

Navigating tricky interview questions can be challenging, especially when confronted with the question, “Why are you leaving your current job?” This question becomes even more daunting if you're exiting a negative work environment. In Malaysia, as elsewhere, it's crucial to handle this question with tact and professionalism to maintain a positive impression. Here's how to effectively answer this interview question without badmouthing your current employer, and position yourself as a strong candidate.

1. Focus on Positive Growth Opportunities

When asked to explain why you're leaving your current job, shift the focus from the negative aspects of your current position to the positive opportunities you're seeking. Some positive reasons for leaving a job would be to emphasise your desire for growth, new challenges, and career development.

Example:

“I'm looking for opportunities that allow me to grow and develop my skills further. My current role has been beneficial, but I'm eager to take on new challenges and work in an environment that supports continuous learning and professional development.”

2. Highlight Misalignment with Career Goals

Another strategy is to discuss how your current job no longer aligns with your long-term career goals. This approach allows you to explain your job departure without delving into the negative aspects of your workplace.

Example:

“While I've appreciated the experience and skills I've gained in my current role, I've realised that my career aspirations have evolved. I'm now looking for a position that better aligns with my professional goals and interests.”

3. Emphasise the Search for a Better Fit

Discuss your need to find a work environment that better suits your values, work style, or preferred company culture. This indicates that you're thoughtful about your career moves and focused on finding the right fit.

4. Keep It Brief and Professional

If you must mention the negatives of why you're leaving your current job, do so briefly and professionally without delving into details. This shows that you're capable of handling difficult situations with grace.

Example:

“There have been some changes in the company that have affected my role, and I feel that it's the right time for me to seek new job opportunities that better align with my professional values and goals.”

5. Stay Positive

No matter how difficult your current situation, always maintain a positive tone. Negative comments can reflect poorly on your and may cause the interviewer to question your professionalism.

6. Be Honest but Tactful

Honesty is important, but it's equally crucial to be tactful. Frame your reasons in a way that's honest but not disparaging.

Example:

“My current job has been a good experience, but I'm seeking new opportunities that can offer me a different kind of challenge and the ability to contribute to a team in a more impactful way.”

Answering the question “Why are you leaving your current job?” when departing from a bad workplace requires a delicate balance of honesty, positivity, and professionalism. By focusing on growth opportunities, career alignment, and finding a better fit, you can present a strong, forward-looking case to potential employers. Remember, the goal is to leave a positive impression that reflects your resilience, professionalism, and readiness for new challenges in your career journey in Malaysia.

For more great advice on how to ace your job interviews, check these articles out:

• Don’t Ask These Questions At Your Job Interview
• How To Answer The 11 Most Common Interview Questions
• 5 Tips That Will Make Sure You Ace Your Phone Interview

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By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM