Discussing what you like and dislike about your current job can be a tricky part of any job interview. While it’s easy to focus on the negatives, an interview isn’t the place for complaints. Instead, it’s a chance to show how you’re looking for growth and a better fit.
We’ll explain what interviewers really want to know when they ask about your likes or dislikes about your current position. Then, we’ll share tips to help you craft a great response and show you some samples of what a winning answer looks like.
Why do interviewers ask about your current job?
A job interview is usually the first time a hiring manager meets you face-to-face. Your resume has already told them about your skills; now, they’re trying to get a feel for what you’re like as a worker.
Interviewers ask this to understand what motivates you and what might make you unhappy. They’re trying to gauge whether the job you’re applying for will suit you better than your current position. They also want to see if you can handle this question professionally, without bad-mouthing your current employer.
What hiring managers look for in your answer
Hiring managers are listening for:
- Insight into your preferences: What aspects of a job are deal-breakers or must-haves for you?
- Alignment with the job: Does what you seek in a job match what this position offers?
- Professionalism: Can you discuss your current job respectfully, even if there are things you don’t like?
How to answer “What do you like and dislike about your current job?”
Plan ahead
It’s not every day we’re allowed to spell out our feelings about our job in black and white. This is your chance, so it’s a good idea to think it through ahead of time. Think about what you genuinely enjoy at your current job and what you wish were different. This preparation helps you craft an answer that’s both honest and strategic.
Stay positive
Focus on framing your dislikes as opportunities for growth. For example, instead of saying you dislike the lack of creativity in your role, you might say you’re looking for a role where you can use your creativity more extensively.
Highlight your skills
Use your answer as a chance to highlight your strengths. For instance, if you’re looking for a role with more responsibility, mention how your current job has prepared you for taking on more.
Focus on the job fit
One strategy for answering ”What do you dislike about your job?” is to indicate things that aren’t necessarily anyone’s fault, but it means the job is no longer a fit. Explain how the new job aligns with the aspects you like and addresses the aspects you dislike. This shows that you’ve thought about why the position is a good fit for you.
How not to answer
Don’t bash your employer
Whatever you do, don’t badmouth your current or former employer. Keep your critique focused on the job aspects, not the people. Not only does it reflect poorly on your professionalism, but the word may get back to the very individuals you’re speaking badly about, which could damage your relationships.
Avoid too much negativity
Even if you’re unhappy, keep your answer balanced. It’s okay to mention dislikes, but they shouldn’t dominate your response. Don’t mention individual people or departments; keep your negatives focused on tasks, processes, or qualities. Instead of “My boss required us to let him know where we were at all times,” try this: “I didn’t have the autonomy to manage my own time. I want to feel like my employer trusts my ability to get my work done.”
Sample answers to “What do you like and dislike about your current job?”
Example #1
“I enjoy the collaborative environment at my current job because it aligns with my belief in teamwork. However, the limited upward mobility has made it difficult for me to advance as quickly as I’d like. I’m interested in a role where I can grow and take on new challenges, which is why I was drawn to this position.”
Example #2
“My current role offers a lot of autonomy, which I value highly. However, I’m looking for a position that offers more opportunities for direct interaction with clients. I’ve realized that building relationships and engaging more directly with stakeholders is where I find the most satisfaction.”
By keeping these points in mind, you can skillfully navigate the question about what you like and dislike about your current job. This approach not only keeps the conversation positive but also shows that you’re thoughtful about your career choices and respectful in how you discuss past and potential employers.
Once your interviewer has broached the subject of your current job, be prepared for a follow-up question like “Why are you leaving?” They might also ask you to expand upon why you want this job in particular.