How to Answer ‘Why Are You Looking for a New Job?’ in an Interview
A recent U.S. News article – How to Answer ‘Why Are You Looking for a New Job?’ in an Interview – caught our eye, and we wanted to share some of the useful tidbits with you. Below are excerpts of the original article, and some best practice advice from our experts here at MRI are written in bold.
The original article is available Here- How to Answer ‘Why Are You Looking for a New Job?’ in an Interview
There are many challenging interview questions, and “Why are you looking for a new job?” certainly falls into that category. Let’s admit, it’s a pretty frustrating question that can really throw you during an interview. But being prepared will make all the difference.
Here at MRI, we pride ourselves on partnering with candidates so they are always prepared for interview questions, including those about their past positions and why they’re looking for a new job.
Whatever your reasons are, you want to be honest but discrete. You don’t want to slam your current boss or colleagues, or tell your prospective employer that you don’t make enough money. These are all huge turn offs and will get you quickly into the “no (and we never want to see you again)” pile. The most important thing is to keep it positive.
One thing that’s important to us at MRI is that the new jobs that our candidate partners are considered for represent a position and company that they’re really going to be satisfied with in the long term. It does us no good to place someone in a role that is going to be a temporary role or “just a job”. When we place someone with one of our trusted clients, we know that we’ve done all the due diligence possible to make it a long term fit.
Focus on the job at hand. We’re always told to focus on the present and not dwell on the past. Use that advice in your interview. Let the interviewer know you are not just looking for any old job. If it’s genuine, tell them why you feel this is a good match for the company and for you. Be specific. Beyond assessing whether you’re a good fit for the team or company and if they think you have staying power, they’re not going to want to hear only about your objectives. Your main focus should be on how you fulfill what they’re looking for, and why you think you can add value to the position.
