How to Answer the Question 'Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?' in an Interview

TLDRLearn how to answer the question 'Why did you leave your last job?' in an interview without putting anyone down or getting too personal. Stay professional and explain your decision to seek new challenges and growth opportunities.

Key insights

:speech_balloon:Avoid putting down your ex-boss or ex-company when answering the question.

:chart_with_upwards_trend:Emphasize your desire for growth and your belief in your ability to do more.

:card_file_box:Explain any corporate restructuring or layoffs neutrally, without getting personal or emotional.

:briefcase:Highlight your accomplishments and the results you achieved in your previous job.

:office_worker:Keep your response concise, avoiding excessive details or negativity.

Q&A

What should I avoid when answering the question 'Why did you leave your last job?'

Avoid putting down your ex-boss or ex-company, getting personal or emotional, and badmouthing others.

How can I explain a situation where I left my last job?

Focus on your desire for growth and new challenges. Emphasize what you learned and the positive experiences you had in your previous job.

How should I handle a situation where I got laid off?

Explain the circumstances objectively, such as corporate restructuring, without blaming anyone. Highlight your positive contributions and the skills you can bring to a new company.

What if I got fired from my last job?

Take responsibility for your actions and reflect on what you learned. Be honest about any mistakes and focus on how you have grown and improved since then.

How long should my response be?

Keep your response concise, around 30 seconds to 1 minute. Avoid going into excessive detail or providing unnecessary information.

Timestamped Summary

00:06In your next interview, you can expect to be asked, 'Why did you leave your last job?'

00:21Avoid putting down your ex-boss or ex-company when answering this question.

01:28If you left your last job voluntarily, focus on your desire for growth and new challenges.

02:17If you were laid off, explain the circumstances neutrally without blaming anyone.

03:55If you got fired, take responsibility for your actions and highlight how you have grown and improved.

04:37Keep your response concise and avoid excessive details.

05:21By preparing your answer in advance, you can confidently address this question in your next job interview.