Explaining why you want to leave your job to a potential employer

Explaining why you want to leave your job to a potential employer

I have been working under a toxic boss for over a year and a half, and I recently decided that I finally need to look for a new job for my own mental health. This was the first place I got a job out of college, and I’ve held two positions here.

My boss overworks me (my next three weeks will consist of 3-4 12 hour days and I don’t get paid overtime). Recently I noticed I forgot about something that I put on the back burner of things to do and she lectured me on how I need to learn to not be lazy and take the easy way out.

Ill spare more details on how she messes with staffs’ emotions when she’s angry, but ultimately I know I need to get out.

However, i know when I start interviewing for jobs I will be asked why I want to leave. I don’t want to fall into badmouthing my old boss, but I also want to be honest. Any advice?

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6 Comments

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  1. Rachel

    This is a very precarious scenario. Unfortunately, it really does leave a telling impression on future employers if it goes south. As you start applying, consider the types of industries or roles you are going for - if they're a level above, or even a new industry/company type, that is your very easy answer.

    You want to paint your whole interview around the value you can provide.

    However, one thing I can recommend is to turn your poor experience back into a positive for your own career growth. Even now, since I hire quite frequently in my role, I hear almost every time that room for growth does not exist. The ability excel in one's career is limited, and naturally, everyone is seeking more growth and development opportunities. (It would help to have a few in mind.) This is always received well since it emphasizes how hardworking you are/want to be as well as the longevity you are looking for in your future employment.

    You can also share a personal life change that would tie into a move you are making - looking for more time with family, looking to progress certain skill sets, etc, which all tie back to *you* - not your previous company or boss.

    Being prepared with information about the company during the interview shows that you have also done the research and are knowledgeable about your applications, with examples of company structure (growth potential) or other benefits- as long as you don't make it all about the perks (eg: "I really need a company-matched 401k.") This is important because it shows you are not looking to leave your current role just for the sake of a change - you are being thoughtful with your next move.

    The last thing I would suggest is also looking up some managerial styles, and coming prepared into your interviews with the style you feel would align most with your working habits. (Diplomatic, transformational, etc, to get you started.) Speaking to what you know will align with you almost indicated you know what *doesn't* work - which is typically based on experience. (Or that's how I would take it as a hiring manager.)

    I hope any of that helps, good luck! I'm sure you'll be able to find somewhere else that is a positive, healthy environment where your skills shine.

  2. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    No big explanation needed - it's your first job out of college. Just say you're ready for a new challenge.

  3. TaVon

    Just say you're interested in new opportunities or a career change.

  4. Orlagh Costello

    I generally say I've achieved everything I can do where I am and am looking for a new challenge.

  5. Anonymous

    New challenge, expand your expertise, leadership that is more supportive of your personal and professional growth, growth opportunities, better work-life balance

    It does imply your current company doesn't provide that for you, but I've seen interviewers to understand since every company is different and everyone has different opportunities at each company.

  6. Anonymous

    Congratulations on your decision to take care of yourself and leave the toxic work environment. In your future interviews, I would say I was leaving to achieve personal and professional growth in your career experience. I would also explain why you believe that specific position and their organization will provide you with that opportunity. Best of luck to you in your journey!

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