Why did you leave your last job?
"I like my current job; however, I am starting to outgrow my responsibilities. I want to find a job that is more challenging by including more one on one client contact and gaining sales experience."
"I was laid off from my position when the company merged with a competing organization. It was an unfortunate turn of events for me, but I am thrilled at the idea of getting back on my feet in this bank teller role with your financial institution."
Be honest with the interviewer about why you left your last job. Focus your answer on personal development versus the downfall of the company. Talk about why you decided to leave the company to better yourself.
Were you fired from your last job? It can be a bit uncomfortable to talk about, but you need to be honest with the interviewer. Share why you were let go from the company, taking complete responsibility for your actions that resulted in your termination. Finally, share what steps you have decided on to ensure you are never let go again.
"I chose to leave my last job for an opportunity with better hours. I needed to spend more evenings with my children. I'm proud of myself for recognizing that need and am excited about what's to come!"
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I didn't leave my job I was laid off. Since the pandemic hit, we weren't getting enough work and because of that, I ended up losing my job.
Cindy's Feedback
That's an understandable answer since many businesses were impacted by the pandemic.
Anonymous Answer
I was terminated. The roles within our team were unclear, and I didn't thrive in that kind of ambiguous team environment. Looking back, I'm grateful to have moved on because now I understand the importance of organizational structure and proactively asking for feedback on my performance.
Amanda's Feedback
I appreciate the candor of your response and that you've noted what you learned from the experience. No matter how you look at it, this question can be tricky. The interviewer is typically trying to determine if you were dismissed due to poor performance or unsuitable behavior. He or she is also looking for positives that can improve your candidacy. It's important to use neutral wording and refrain from placing blame on anyone - yourself or others. It's best to simply let the interviewer know that you and your prior employer just weren't a good match. Keep your answer short and honest. Then, move on as quickly as possible.
I was terminated. The roles within our team were unclear, and I didn't thrive in that kind of ambiguous team environment. Looking back, I'm grateful to have moved on because now understand the importance of understanding organizational structure and proactively asking for feedback on my performance.
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