When you’re interviewing for a new job, you’re probably excited to show why you’re a great fit for the role. But there’s a good chance you’ll get asked about your current or previous job, too. “Why are you leaving your job?” is one of the most common questions interviewers ask, and while it seems simple, it can be a bit tricky to answer.
You want to be honest, but it’s also important not to share too much personal stuff or say anything negative about your current boss or company. To make a good impression, you should plan ahead for how you’ll respond. Check out the tips and sample answers below to help you figure out how to explain why you’re moving on from your job in a way that makes sense and feels comfortable.
Why interviewers ask why you’re leaving
Interviewers ask why you’re leaving your job to understand what matters most to you in a workplace. They want to know if there are specific things that made you decide to move on—especially things that could be deal-breakers for you. This helps them see if their company can offer what you’re looking for.
It also gives hiring managers insight into any issues you may have had with your current or previous employer. If your answer seems vague or defensive, it might raise concerns and prompt them to dig deeper. They want to ensure you’re leaving for the right reasons, like seeking career growth or new challenges, rather than due to conflicts with coworkers or other issues that could signal you’re difficult to manage.
Ultimately, employers want to hire someone who will stick around and be a good fit.
How to answer “Why are you leaving your job?”
Focus on growth
The best employees are always looking for ways to challenge themselves and advance their careers. If you’ve hit a ceiling in your current job and there’s no room for growth, that’s a solid reason to seek new opportunities. Be specific about what kind of growth you’re looking for in a new position. For example, you could say:
This shows that you’re proactive about your career and are motivated to take the next step, which can be very attractive to a potential employer.
Incorporate your values
A great way to connect with your interviewer is by talking about your values and how they align with the company you’re interviewing with. If you’re passionate about a company’s mission or the kind of work they do, say so! For example:
This not only shows that you’re thoughtful about where you work but also that you’re looking for more than just a paycheck—you want to feel connected to your work, which is something many employers value.
Cite extenuating circumstances
Sometimes, the reason you’re leaving your job isn’t related to dissatisfaction at all. If you’re moving for personal reasons, like relocating because of a family member’s job or your current company is going through a restructure, it’s perfectly fine to mention that. Just be sure to explain what draws you to the new job:
This way, you’re explaining your situation clearly while also emphasizing your excitement for the new role.
How not to answer
Don’t make it all about money
While it’s natural to want a higher salary, saying that money is your main reason for leaving doesn’t sit well with most hiring managers. They want to hire people who care about the work, the team, and the company’s mission—not just the paycheck. Even though salary is important, it’s best to wait until later in the hiring process to bring it up.
Instead, focus on what goes along with a higher salary, like more responsibility or professional growth. Here’s a better way to put it:
This answer shifts the focus from just money to your desire for career development, which is something employers respect and understand.
Avoid complaining about your current job
It can be tempting to vent about frustrations with your current job, especially if things aren’t going well. But badmouthing your current boss, coworkers, or company can raise red flags for a potential employer. They might wonder if you’ll do the same thing if you ever leave their company. Keep your answer positive and focus on the future instead of dwelling on the negatives of your current situation.
For example, instead of saying, “My boss is always micromanaging me, and I’m tired of it,” you could say:
This answer shows that you’re forward-thinking and focused on finding the right fit, rather than just running away from a bad situation.
Sample answers to “Why are you leaving your job?”
Example #1
“I’ve learned a lot in my current job, like how to work well with a team and communicate with customers. But there aren’t many opportunities for me to grow into a leadership position at my company. I’m really excited about this role because it would give me the chance to lead a team and take on more responsibility.”
Why this works:
This answer shows that you’re grateful for what you’ve learned in your current job but are ready to take the next step. It highlights your desire for growth and leadership, which is something employers value. It’s framed in a positive way, focusing on what excites you about the new opportunity instead of criticizing your current situation.
Example #2
“My current company focuses mainly on market research, and while I’ve learned a lot in that area, I’ve realized I’m more passionate about product development. I’m looking for a role where I can build on my research skills and transition into a more hands-on product development position. This role seems like a great opportunity to do that.”
Why this works:
This answer shows self-awareness and a clear understanding of your evolving interests. It frames your reason for leaving as a thoughtful decision based on your career goals. By mentioning how your current skills will transfer into the new role, you show the hiring manager that you’re bringing value to the company, not just starting from scratch.
Example #3
“I’ve enjoyed my time in my current internship, where I’ve developed strong skills in social media management and content creation. However, I’m looking for a full-time role where I can take on bigger projects and be more involved in shaping the overall strategy. This position seems like a great fit for what I’m looking for.”
Why this works:
This example is perfect for someone newer to the workforce. It acknowledges the value of the experience gained so far, but also shows ambition and readiness for a more significant challenge. By focusing on your desire to contribute at a higher level, you show that you’re eager to make a bigger impact, which appeals to employers looking for motivated and proactive candidates.
Employers want to hire people who are moving toward something, not running away from a problem. Make sure your answer focuses on the positives of the new opportunity and shows that you’ve thoughtfully considered your reasons for leaving. You can expect a follow-up question about whether you’ve tried to find what you’re looking for at your current company, so be prepared to explain that you’ve explored your options and made a careful decision. Having a clear, confident reason for seeking a new role will show the hiring manager that you’re dependable and aligned with the company’s goals.