Why are you looking for a new job?

Seeking a job
During an interview, you may be asked, “Why are you looking for a new job?” In your answer, interviewers are looking for a few key pieces of information. They are probably curious about how much thought you’ve put into starting your job search, why this specific job opportunity is appealing to you and what you’re looking for in your next position.
Potential employers can learn a lot about you and whether you’re a good fit from your answer to this question, so it’s smart to plan your response in advance. They will be listening for any red flags that may come up. For example, how do you handle conflict resolution? Are you likely to leave shortly after you’re hired? How have you contributed to the situation you’re looking to leave? In particular, they may become concerned if you say negative things about your former employer, wondering if you would, in turn, also say negative things about them one day.
To make a good impression, focus on the positive reasons for why you’re leaving your current job and looking for something new. This is a great opportunity to emphasize your skills and abilities, and why you’re looking for a situation where you can use and improve them.
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Related: How to Ace Your Final Interview


Key takeaways:

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  Interviewers ask this question to understand your goals and motivations.
  
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  They might also ask to determine whether you’re leaving your previous job on good terms.
  
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  Offer positive, opportunity-oriented reasons including ways the new role better with your professional goals.
  

 

Example reason you may be looking for a job and response analysis

Let’s look at an example of a good answer to this question, and how to use it to approach your own answer in an interview:
“I’ve been refining my project management skills with volunteer opportunities and side projects, and I received my PMP last quarter. I’m looking for an opportunity where I can put those abilities to work for a mission I’m passionate about. I was also excited to read in the job description that this role will require regular presentations to key stakeholders—one of my key motivators is the ability to connect with colleagues and communicate my team’s work, so this is an especially exciting part of this opportunity.
Ultimately, I’ve learned a lot in my current role, but I’m looking for the next step where I can continue to grow and use the skills I’ve honed at a company I love, and this opportunity seems to be a great fit.”
This is a good answer for several reasons. Here are some insights to help you understand why this is a strong response and what a good answer would look like for you: