'Why are you looking for another job?'

Question

I have a phone interview with a recruiter tomorrow at a company I've been eager to get into, and of course the question will come up - the truth is, my current boss is terrifying, and creates a toxic workplace culture, with lots of defensive backstabbing and under-bus-throwing, and the girding of our loins before every conference call.  I've only been in my current position a year.  Have any of you figured out a way of expressing this without making it look like you're an authority-challenging whiner?

Lady Pele · Answer

I wouldn't bring up anything about the current job, but focus on what you're looking for in a new job.  For example, 'I would like to spend more time in the (sales / research / analysis / customer interaction) part of my job.  I truly enjoy it, but it's only a part of my current role.  I think that in your company, I can bring that enthusiasm and focus to augment your current staff' or something along those lines.

Gina Diamante · Answer

Is it possible to focus on what the new job offers that you cannot get at the old job? In my last job change, I was presented with the opportunity to launch a new program, something that wasn't going to happen with the previous employer. If you're able to frame it as, 'This position offers me an exciting opportunity that I don't want to miss,' you can skip talking about the culture of the old place entirely. But be sure to ask questions about the culture of the new place, to ensure that you're not walking into the same baloney with a different letterhead.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you all!  I agree, and ended up focusing on the nature of the job, being less client-facing and having less opportunities to manage my own work tasks.  (I'm a glorified sales assistant.)  It went well.   It's unfortunately that we keep hearing about bad bosses being the reason people leave employers, but no one feels comfortable owning up to HAVING one.  ;)

JB09718 · Answer

I agree with previous posts, just rephrase your response so it comes across as a positive. (For example: I am seeking a more ______ workplace where I can_______.) Good luck on your interview!

Anonymous · Answer

I'm in somewhat of the same boat - looking for a new job only three months in to starting my latest position. The truth is that the culture is misogynistic and overtly religious (the owners are Mormon, which is fine, but they ban caffeine at the office and close meetings with a prayer). When I'm asked this, I keep it vague 'When I took this position, I was hoping for a challenging and collaborative work environment. That hasn't been the case and instead I've felt stifled in a very traditional and rigid workplace structure.'

I don't see a need to mention your manager in particular, just something about how the culture doesn't fit because you are a go-getter who likes to innovate, even outside of your assigned role.

Anonymous · Answer

This is a tough place to be in! Is there one (or a few!) thing you could identify as a growth opportunity in the new position? Try to keep it positive by expressing your gratitude for what you've learned in your current position, and what you hope to learn in this new opportunity.

Carolyn Hipkins · Answer

I'm looking for a new job because I feel stuck in my current one. I working for a staffing agency on a long-term federal contract. I don't want to work for the staffing agency anymore because the benefits are lousy. The federal agency says they want to hire me as an FTE but they can't seem to make that happen. I've been on this contract for seven years and get asked all the time why am I looking now. I'm looking because I want an upgrade. How do I tell potential employers that?

Laela Suddoo · Answer

Keep the conversation more about what you’ve learned and skills you’re taking with you into the new role. Save the feedback for your exit interview and online review. I am also seeking new opportunities; basically getting pushed out after 3.5 years due to restructure. Something better is bound to come along!

Kimberly Sweeney · Answer

It is very difficult at times to turn a negative into a positive.  Whenever I am asked (I too have been in a similar boat myself), I focus on what I want in a culture and this is my typical response:

'While I have enjoyed my current role, the reason I am seeking to take on (job applied for) is because of the following reasons: 
1.) Upward Mobility - I seek an organization that allows and supports my desire to grow and develop my career.  In my current organization I have reached my glass ceiling so if I am seeking to work for an organization which allows me to pursue my career goals.
2.) Training & Development - While I own my own development, I seek an organization that supports and encourages its employees careers.  My current organization does not have any training and development programs.
3.) Communication and Collaboration - While I am able to work independently and in teams, I am seeking an organization that has a strong focus on collaborating and sharing ideas.  I seek to be a sponge and learn from those around me.
What do you deem the most important qualities to be successful in this role?'

I hope this helps!

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