Ideal Ways to Explain Why You Left Your Last Job

The common interview question that asks why you left your last job is important to hiring managers because your response can reveal if you are a good fit for the culture of their company and the role you might have. Your answer and the way you present your reasons can reveal your work ethic and values. Answering this question positively and honestly, no matter your complete reason, will show the interviewer that you can be an asset to their company.

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Providing an answer to why you left your previous job gives the hiring manager an opportunity to understand your character and see why you will be a good fit for a role at their company. Giving a concrete answer will help show your confidence and readiness for a new opportunity. Use the examples below with the bulleted explanations to help develop and explain your own reasons for why you left your last job.

 

Example 1: Our company was hit hard by current events, and 50% of us were given notice that we could no longer be kept onboard. I know it was a hard decision to make but I appreciate the time I was given and the opportunity I had to learn and grow at that company.

This is a good response because it gives concrete numbers to show you were not alone, acknowledges the company’s position, and shows understanding.

Example 2: When I first started working at my previous company my role was drastically different. As the company grew, my role changed and so did the needs of the company.

This is a good response because it details that you were willing to change, indicates a shift in circumstances, and develops that you can adjust to need.

Example 3: My position was eliminated by the company when new procedures were put in place and left me open to the opportunity to be a part of another companies growth.

The strength in this response shows that your abilities were still evident, develops that there is no ill feelings, and focuses on the future.

Example 4: There was restructuring once our company was taken over and it is unfortunate that my role was absorbed by another position. I learned a lot, and am ready to apply my knowledge elsewhere.

Sometimes companies downsize and combine roles. This is a good response because it shows the change in leadership affected your role, you learned from your experience, and you are a resilient individual.

Example 5: There was a funding shortage.

This is a strong answer because it is clear, concise, and provides information detailing that the change was due to outward circumstances.

Example 6: My services were required only for a set amount of time. When I joined, I was aware that my time was limited but was enthused to contribute to the project.

This answer is strong because it shows a passion for your work, a willingness to work toward large goals, and confidence in your abilities.

Example 7: After evaluating the company policies and some of my own, it was clear that our core values were no longer aligned.

This is a good response because it shows respect for differing perspectives, allows for elaboration on your core values, and acknowledges change and growth for companies and employees.

Example 8: There were many structural changes happening and I felt I was no longer had the opportunity or resources to complete my responsibilities.

This is a good response because it shows you value good work and you don’t compromise when it comes to providing the best possible.

Example 9: I enjoyed working for my previous company but after the manager that hired me retired, the new manager had a different approach and view of my role.

This response is strong because it develops the fact that you were capable in your role but that leadership was not supportive anymore.

Example 10: My easy-going personality was not aligned with the company culture.

This response is strong because it reveals an understanding of company culture, indicates you are easy to get along with, and maintains a respectful tone.

Example 11: The expectations of my role changed and, even after discussions, we could not see eye-to-eye.

This response is strong because it indicates an attempt to reach an understanding, a need for consistency, and an awareness that change is sometimes for the better.

Example 12: I saw something that didn’t agree with my core values, and after discussing my concerns with HR, decided that my values didn’t align with those of the company.

This is a strong response because it shows that your morals are high, you will do the right thing under any circumstance, and you seek assistance when needed.

Example 13: My former manager and I expected different things and, in retrospect, I can see where and why our opinions were so different, but I am excited to have a new opportunity for growth.

The strength in this response lies in the focus on the future and the ability to be self-reflective.

Example 14: I was ready to take on more responsibilities and opportunities, but my employer and I were in disagreement.

This answer is strong because it shows you value your work and feel that others should value your abilities as well. It also acknowledges conflict, which can be unfortunate but sometimes unavoidable. Furthermore, it shows that through disagreement you can remain humble and refrain from speaking ill of others.

Example 15: The job and company turned out not to be a good fit for me.

This is a strong answer because it reveals self-reflection on your part. You saw there was a need to move forward and rather than remain in a role you could unfulfilling, you search for a place where your skills can be utilized.

Example 16: I have a long history with my last place of employment and although I feel I learned a lot I also wanted a challenge and an opportunity to move up.

This is a good answer because it reveals you to be driven.

Example 17: I was given an unexpected opportunity to advance my career.

This response shows courage and the ability to embrace change even when not expected.

Example 18: My department underwent some leadership changes, and I felt it was a great time for me to seek other opportunities.

This is a strong answer because it is honest and candid but respectful.

Example 19: I returned to school to further my education and better equip myself with skills and qualifications that can’t be earned through on-the-job training.

This answer reveals you to be planning for the future and an asset to company growth.

Example 20: I was ready to start a family.

This response reveals your values, strong character, and values placed on family. Additionally, it shows your ability to prioritize and your focus on being the best in all areas of your life.

Example 21: I had a family issue that needed my full attention and I knew while dealing with personal matters I would be unable to do my best work for the company.

The strength in this answer is that it shows you have a strong work ethic and will only do a job to the best of your ability. When outside factors prove to be too much, you willingly stepped down rather than under perform.

Example 22: I had grown as an employee but my role and responsibilities remained the same. I was ready for a challenge and to take on more of a leadership role.

This answer is good because it reveals you left a job to better yourself and help others as well. It indicates a high character.

Example 23: I needed the option to work part-time for a while, and that was not possible.

This answer is honest and shows you search for a role that fits your needs and lifestyle. It is direct and reveals you to be a professional open to communicating your needs with your employer.

Example 24: My manager left to start her own business and I went to work for her.

This response shows you can build strong relationships at work, you believe in others and you are loyal.

Example 25: It was time for a change.

This answer shows an awareness of professional growth and an unwillingness to be stagnant.