Why are you looking for a new job?

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The interviewer is asking, point blank, what your reason is for seeking a new opportunity. Perhaps you were terminated, or your company closed their office. Maybe you are not receiving the growth opportunities you once thought you would have. Whatever your reasoning, be positive and do not speak poorly about your most recent employer.

"I have had my eye out for a new opportunity for some time now. Although I have no direct concerns with my employer on a day to day basis, I cannot see the career trajectory that I need. I would love to join a larger organization like yours with more promising opportunity."

"I am looking for a new job because the last position that I held was a maternity leave coverage contract which is now over. I enjoyed that role greatly and am excited to start a similar role but on a permanent basis."

"I am ready to lead a team larger than the one I lead now. I have asked my current employer for a raise or transfer to a larger location; however, more tenured people currently hold those roles so they cannot make that happen. I have my eye on steady career growth, which is what's fueling my search at this time."

"Currently, I work for a startup, and I am more interested in working for a larger and more established agency where I can learn, work with larger clients, and be mentored by those more knowledgeable than I."

"I have been looking for work since graduating with my degree in business administration. I am actively interviewing but am very focused on joining an organization that will set me up for success, right from the start."

"I am looking for a new opportunity with less overnight travel requirements. I am happy to travel; however, 20% travel became 60%, and this schedule is tough for my family. I am open to about 25% overnight travel in my next position."

"I am looking for a new job after relocating to this city this last month. I am newer to the area but have already met some incredible people. I look forward to making this city my long-term home."

Anonymous Answer

"Although I do not have pressing issues with my current employer, I am seeking an opportunity to grow and advance my career. Joining Qatar Airways (a much larger company) would provide the desired career trajectory. I am selective in locating positions that would be the best fit for my skillset and career goals."

Lauren's Feedback

This is a great, honest answer. Employers are looking for long-term employees, and you have valid desires to pursue this opportunity to gain leverage and career growth.

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Anonymous Answer

"With the exception of capped salaries, I have no issues with my current employer. I do want to put my insurance career on a faster advancement track and I feel Allstate is the company to achieve this with. I feel Allstate is the right fit with all of the position paths and certifications offered."

Marcie's Feedback

Great! Nice job on not talking negatively about your current employer (as you know, it's never a good idea to do that during an interview). It's also good that you mention the things you like specifically about Allstate, namely that the company offers opportunities for advancement and growth. Perhaps consider giving some more details about how you'd like to grow within the company within the next several years so the interviewer can clearly understand your ambition and drive.

Anonymous Answer

"I took a break from work for focusing on my health during pregnancy. Unexpectedly, because of the pandemic, I had to delay my job search to take care of the kids. Now, with schools opening for in-person classes, I feel ready to contribute to projects that I feel passionate about."

Marcie's Feedback

This response feels authentic and honest, but I generally suggest caution when adding personal details about your health or your parenting responsibilities, especially if this is a first or second interview. Legally, employers can't ask you about this during your interview process, and you want to avoid oversharing details that you could be used against you (or details that could cause unconscious bias in the mind of your interviewer.)

"I decided to take some time off from the working world to focus on my family, and then the pandemic hit unexpectedly, which caused me to delay my search. I am finally at a point where I feel ready to return to work. I feel like I have gained a lot of transferable skills during this time and I am eager to contribute to projects that I feel passionate about. I am excited to speak with you about this opportunity!"

Anonymous Answer

"I loved the industry I was in. I met a lot of great people that I still keep in contact with to this day. At the end of the day, the industry I was in did not offer the same challenges it once did. I love meeting new challenges, pushing myself, and learning new things. In my past industry, the same things happened and were cyclical. In Medical Device Sales, with all the people who have a long experience inside of it, tell me they learn something new every day and there are always challenges to overcome."

Marcie's Feedback

Excellent! This is a great answer because it shows that you are not negative about your past employer but instead very positive and just looking for new learning opportunities. It also emphasizes that you enjoy new challenges and are ambitious and motivated. Great response!

How to Answer: Why are you looking for a new job?