Why did you leave your last job?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example

The interviewer wants to know your reason for leaving your last job to see if you were fired or laid off or if you gave your notice. If you were fired or laid off, describe why and what you learned from your experience (if terminated). If you gave your notice, the interviewer wants to know why you chose to leave.

If you chose to leave your last job, focus on a positive reason, such as advancing your career or furthering your education. If you were fired, focus on the learning experience. Be sure to highlight the positive rather than the negative reasons for leaving your previous employment.

No matter the reason for leaving your last job, you should avoid speaking poorly of your supervisor or coworkers. Even if you left because you did not like your supervisor or the working conditions were intolerable, if you talk ill of others, it shows the interviewer that you might be challenging to work with and talk about people behind their backs.

"I left my last job to focus on my bachelor's degree in criminal justice. I worked in construction and wanted to pursue a career as a correction officer. If I gave my two weeks' notice, I could receive my degree in half the time. I left on good terms and am still friends with my former supervisor and coworkers."

"I was let go from my last job due to budget cuts. The prison had to reduce its staff by 15%, and they decided to let go of the newest hires. I was laid off after working there for six months."

"I left my last job to advance my career further. There was not an opportunity to promote as there is within your organization. That is the main reason I applied with your organization as you encourage and offer professional advancement."

How to Answer: Why did you leave your last job?