Interview question approach

Question

I am currently working and actively looking for another job. I feel so awkward when they ask me why do I want to leave and I’m not sure what to say. I usually just say “I’m looking for growth or a better opportunity” but I feel like I come off as never satisfied. I have been at my current job for 7 years and I am just bored and feel like I could do so much more and get paid a lot more. Please help!

Susan Smoter · Answer

So why are you bored? To me that's the right answer to this question. 'I'm bored at my current level and I know I can do so much more.'

Angelica Tara · Answer

How's this - 'I'm looking for challenges outside of my comfort zone / I would like to explore possibilities that enhance my skill set.'

LEANNE TOBIAS · Answer

Be as specific as possible and relate what you are seeking to the duties of the new job.
   Example: x% of my current duties are in customer service and I have excelled at it, increasing the volume of repeat sales by y%.  I’m looking to take on new challenges in customer service, and have applied for this role because it focuses on (cite customer service responsibilities of new job.)

Gina Diamante · Answer

When you just say that you're bored, it's telling me you have no idea what you really want except a change. Think about what you really want to be doing. What would excite you, challenge you?

Pat Roque · Answer

How to respond if a new job interviewer asks, why do you want to leave your job.

No, never say that you're bored and it's time to move on. 
Rather, having done your research on the future company and role, you'd be wise to answer with a more positive, proactive statement like: 'After ___ years with my company, and numerous promotions, it's time to leverage my success in ___ (state quantifiable accomplishment that is transferable to new job) and apply my growing interest in ___  (new technology, or important attribute they are seeking) to help your team achieve _____ (growth/goal mentioned in job description).   Knowing that my top 5 strengths include (then name them), I'm excited at the potential to support your mission of ____.

Debbie Jackson-Doherty · Answer

I've been at my job for nearly 25 years. From time to time you look around and say, why am I doing this work? I could do more. I started finding ways to learn and do more advanced work a little at a time. I'd ask to observe in the photo studio, I'd push my assignment to the next level and then make it known that I was actually doing next upper-level successfully. I'd ask my supervisor for work that seemed to be bogging him down and get it all done in time. One day, I was very frustrated with menial work and got ahold of him as he was nearby. I explained that this was entry level work and that I was capable of more.  A few days later when the successful results one of those higher level jobs came in, I picked up the papers, walked to his office, went in and slapped them on his desk and said 'I can do this!' He said 'yes, I know you can'. The next day the job description came out, I applied and about two weeks later had the job. You have to know who you are working with, but I was determined, hard-working and a bit bold. That has gotten me several promotions and raises over the years. That being said, I was much younger at the time. Now the hierarchy has changed and I am probably where I will stay for the rest of my career. But, a career I had! Ageism is another story!

Jackie Ghedine · Answer

After being part of this organization for seven years, I'm ready for a new experience that takes me out of my comfort zone, which is where growth happens.

How's that?  Good luck!

Interview question approach

You're invited.

See what women are sharing on Fairygodboss.