What to Say When Asked Why You are Leaving Your Current Position

A common question posed by hiring managers is, "Why do you want to leave your current position?" While there's no one right answer for this question, there are certain responses that make a better impression. Keep these do's and don'ts in mind when you're answering this touchy question in a job interview.

Do: Be Honest

If you're not completely convinced that you want to leave your current position, be honest in your response to the interviewer. Convey to the hiring manager that while you're happy with your current employer, you're interested in learning more about the open position with his organization to determine if it's a good fit for you. Tell the interviewer what qualities attract you to a new position.

Don't: Badmouth Your Employer

Regardless of the reason for your unhappiness, it's never OK to badmouth the boss at your current position. Whether it's justified or not, talking negatively about a current or former employer makes you look unprofessional and may cause the hiring manager to question your competence.

Do: Practice Your Answer

Take the time to rehearse your answer prior to the interview. Your response should be positive and focused on the future without sounding rehearsed. Strive for an answer that sounds genuine and non-defensive. You want the hiring manager to view you as self-aware rather than self-serving.

Don't: Make It All About You

Avoid giving an answer that makes the interviewer think you're self-centered. While it's acceptable to tell the hiring manager that your current position doesn't provide enough of an opportunity for growth, it's not OK to complain about your pay rate. Don't mention that you want a new job with a better title. These self-centered answers are sure to turn off the hiring firm.

Do: Be Positive

Keep your response positive by mentioning something that you appreciate about your current employer. Explain what you've learned from your current position, and tell how you can apply it to the position for which you're interviewing. Even if it's hard to find something positive to say about your current employer, dig up a true statement, but describe to the hiring manager why the open position presents a better match for you.

Don't: Lie

If you were asked to leave by your current employer, don't lie about it. It's easy for a hiring manager to uncover this information and determine that you're being untruthful. Tell the interviewer why your position is ending, from your employer's perspective, and explain what you learned from the experience. Own up to any mistakes that you made.

While the question of why you want to leave your current position can be a tricky one to navigate, don't stress over how to respond. Before your job interview, spend time perfecting your answer. Make sure your response is honest and positive to convey a humble and genuine image.

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