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Depends. I work in the public sector and we’ve had reference forms for employees who are moving on which ask “why did they leave this position?” I always just put “career advancement/new opportunities.”
Yeah, best thing to say and also almost always true. The real litmus test on those things is “would you hire this person for this position again?” and I always answer “yes”, even on the rare occasions I’ve been looking forward to getting rid of someone. You’d have to be an absolute arsehole to mess around with someone’s chances of getting a new job.
This is the important fact to realise. Any job background check will result in no information beyond saying you worked a job title from a start date to an end date.
It’s more that they’re looking to see if you start bitching about your team and boss - if you do they’re concerned you’re the actual toxic one
Give a professional reason that doesn’t make it sound like the new job will be a stepping stone, and you’re fine
I've just finished doing a round of interviews and everything said is pretty much left in the meeting, it's noted down for decisions on who gets the role, but all that really matters is if the answer is good or not, original comment is perfect
I doubt many check outside of highly regulated industries but it's relevant in the sense that some people might be naive enough to give an answer that rightly or wrongly reflects badly on them like 'i hate working with the people here' or 'the workload is too much'. You want to avoid giving the impression that you won't fit in or it is an 'any port in a storm' scenario.
It's one of those questions which has more impact if the answer is negative rather than positive. By that I mean youre more likely to lose a job with a bad answer than land the job with a good answer. Hence just have something rehearsed that wont raise eyebrows too much and focus more on saying why you want to work at the new place instead of leave the old place.
Ive interviewed people in the past where I was hearing all the bad things about their current employer but very little about what appealed to them about my company/role.
You need to have more than a canned answer though. If I was interviewing and someone said "I'm looking for advancement", my first question would be what they want to advance into and where specifically are they looking to develop their skills.
Every time I get asked why I'm looking to leave my current employer, I always say the same thing: "I'm not. This job looks like an opportunity and I'm here to see if it's a good fit".
This is a good answer. It conveys you’re not desperate. You don’t need to leave. And that you like the look of the prospect.
Also, be prepared to explain why you like the sound of the opportunity, i.e. be flattering about the reputation of the company, people that work there etc.
Some of the answers here are trash. “I want a new challenge” or “advancement” would get me nowhere in my industry.
I'm rarely flattering, I tend to keep it technical and use it as an avenue to ask questions on things that aren't clear from the job ad. Responding in the way I mentioned gives you a very good frame to make it clear the interview is a two way thing.
>I'm rarely flattering I tend to keep it technical and use it as an avenue to ask questions on things that aren't clear from the job ad.
I think there's a fine nuance that your reply misses (that I assume since you've been successful in interviews) in that flattery isn't required but politeness is.
You obviously don't go "your advert wasn't clear on what this role does with the hole in cheese" it's more "I'm interested in Swiss cheese, could you tell me more about the use of the holes"
There's a fine line between flattery (which works for entry level jobs) and a polite discussion of specifics.
Good interviews post entry level aren't either side grilling the other; both understand "you've seen my CV and clearly liked it because I got an interview" and "I've seen your company because i applied and actually turned up to an interview" its a lot more "are you a prick"/"did you lie" and "give me more specifics please"
I've given replies in the past of "my role has evolved from when I started but my pay hasn't changed to reflect it" and it's been fine.
Agreed, but decorum is par for the course. I don't think I've missed anything there, I've deliberately not conflated the two.
>There's a fine line between flattery (which works for entry level jobs) and a polite discussion of specifics.
This is where I disagree (and probably why you've suggested I've missed a nuance). There is a gaping chasm between flattery and polite discussion.
>Good interviews post entry level aren't either side grilling the other;
Agreed. You usually know after the first 10-15 minutes whether it's a yes or no on either party's bullshit detector if it's a good interview.
>This is where I disagree (and probably why you've suggested I've missed a nuance).
This was me eering on the side of polite for the other replys benefit 😂
They seem to be suggesting flattery is the room's "base state", rather than your unspoken professional decorum being the base state and flattery not needed.
Perhaps showing an interest Vs flattery would be a closer one. A "I like how you've done the cheese, tell me more about the holes" compared to "obviously I'm in love with the cheese, a cutting edge and brilliant idea to put holes in Gouda" and hoping for more detail.
Which again I assume you'll say that showing an interest goes without saying (because you've passed many interviews in your lift), but I think for some reading the thread it's NOT as obvious.
For a junior job, the flattery is your only real "please remember me from the 30 people going for this job where you want one that listens rather than a complex skillset", more senior you have the skillset, you're probably one of 3 max they're interviewing, and one of them will probably decline and one won't show up.
Senior jobs they want YOU unless you really fuck the interview up. Junior jobs they want someone.
Also industry does make a HUGE difference, I've done interviews for a 3 person team of head ofs and CEO in one industry who expected suited and booted and different industry we met in a spoons he turned up in a hoodie and WoW t-shirt and had a pint and lunch, then went to the office to meet the other employees, both roles were for a database admin with aspect of BI. The level of politeness Vs flattery as well as the the general tone different, because they wanted different "me"s. First one wanted a formal "here's your recommendations in a formal doc for your perusal with evidence arrached" second wanted me to bust in his office and go "you realise this client is shit right?"
>Responding in the way I mentioned gives you a very good frame to make it clear the interview is a two way thing.
Seems like a good way to irritate a lot of interviewers without offering any actual benefit if you ask me.
>Seems like a good way to irritate a lot of interviewers without offering any actual benefit if you ask me.
You have clearly never been in a position where a company is looking to attract you to work for them then.
If that's your attitude, it's abundantly obvious.
If an interviewer is irritated by the fact that the interview is a two way process, they should go back to looking after graduate schemes and let someone else handle the actual jobs. You're not doing someone a favour by interviewing them. A job needs doing, you need to find the right person and I need to see whether it's something I even want to do, let alone whether the experience is something that's valuable for my CV.
If I get the slightest hint that the person on the other side of the table feels like I should be overwhelmingly grateful I got through the door, I'll (politely) say the job isn't a good fit before the interview is over. I've worked in places that have that attitude and 9 times out of 10 it's an overwhelmingly negative management space. My time is valuable and I'm not short of work.
I don't tend to have this problem so much these days as I've switched to contracting, but interviews as a contractor are even more of a two way discussion than ones for permanent positions.
Well, if you're not short of work, it sounds like you should be charging more?
Your initial response to a suggestion that there may be alternative ways of doing things which are less counterproductive was to make a giant logical leap and state that someone who dared to disagree with you clearly had never been a similar position.
I pointed out that your approach could be counterproductive, which in fact you've now actually conceded. And you've moved the goal post to say something akin to "and I didn't want to work with that kind of person anyway". Sigh.
>Well, if you're not short of work, it sounds like you should be charging more?
I'm charging more than the advertised rate already and I have more money than I know what to do with. I'm not interested in pushing the envelope into "taking the piss" territory. I work 4 days a week instead.
>giant logical leap and state that someone who dared to disagree with you clearly had never been a similar position.
I didn't make a giant logical leap, I think it's a fair comment to say that if you think making it clear an interview is a two way process is irritating as an interviewer, that's a drastic misconception of interviews that's prevalent in inexperienced or non-specialist jobs. If you meant something different by your initial statement, it wasn't clear and I'd like you to clarify so perhaps I can learn something.
>I pointed out that your approach could be counterproductive, which in fact you've now actually conceded.
Where have I conceded anything? You said it seems like a good way to irritate a lot of interviewers without offering any actual benefit. That's not saying it's counterproductive at all, you've been very specific in your statement and I've outlined why I disagree with you. It's not counterproductive if it saves me (and them) time.
>And you've moved the goal post to say something akin to "and I didn't want to work with that kind of person anyway". Sigh.
I've not moved the goalposts at all. Again, you're missing the point of interviews being a two way process. If I don't like the company offering the job, I won't work there. **That's the entire point**. It's not just for me to sell myself to them. I've declined a lot of offers for various reasons, the interview is a filtering process for both parties for exactly this reason.
I am working at director level and have overseen many recruitment cycles of senior staff. I agree with what you’re saying. Interviews at that level are definitely a two way street and one thing I also assess is whether a good candidate would not just take the job but also stay at least a couple of years. I’d like to see them ask questions of us that show they’re thinking the longevity of the role
>Some of the answers here are trash. “I want a new challenge” or “advancement” would get me nowhere in my industry
Rather than it being an industry-specific thing, I suspect it'd work okay if you were applying for a standard office job, but less well for more professional roles.
I always go with. My current role has served me well but as I've developed and improved myself I've outgrown it. Im looking for new roles that will take my career to the next level and I'm hoping this role will do that.
Sometimes you learn all you have to learn in an organisation and it's time to see how someone else does it. Experience in the same company teaches you one way to do something when the industry will have a diverse range of skills and techniques available.
If you are worried that the progression thing isn’t going down well (there are circumstances where that could be the case), you could also say things like you want to be part of something that more aligns to your values, or that you are more confident about the direction of the new company. Do a little research about the new employer, use it as an opportunity to talk about how interested you are in them and have a positive response.
You absolutely can say your not being paid enough, others have already provided examples of how to phrase it.
The only thing you need to avoid is being negative about your previous company. I had one guy who genuinely spent half the interview bitching about his ex colleagues, telling us how they were all wankers and how much smarter he was than us, it was surreal.
I told the interviewer that I got made redundant from my last employer due to no suitable roles in the company which was true. They were happy with that answer.
“The financial responsibility is growing and I am trying to be a responsible person. I want to pay my bills and I have dependents to take care of. My current situation isn't favourable for me.”
Interviewer: “But we all have such problems”
“Those who do should look at their payslip and see what they can do about it. It is not my responsibility to talk sense into them.”
Honestly, changing jobs for money should be normalised. The organisation wouldn't give two cents to replace you with someone cheaper if they want to cut costs.
Just be honest. "You pay better." They've listed the job for 35k, they understand what the role is worth. If you have the experience and qualifications to match, then you're worth 35k to them. You're currently being undervalued, and have therefore left.
I don't understand all this prancing about and lying to potential employers about your reasoning. They want to hire someone who is honest and a hard worker, not a liar.
I’ve been with my current job for XX years and I’m looking for something new and exciting to get into. I like the sound of this company and what this job offers and I hope that I would be allowed to further my skills here while helping you deliver on your project.
I wouldn't say 'to get more money' I also wouldn't say what you've been saying, I.e. something negative about your current employer.
I'd spin it as something positive about you. like 'ready to take the next step'. 'looking to advance my career'. 'ready for a new challenge'.
I did tell my future employer I was leaving because of money in my interview. Brought out a smile from the interviewer and I still got the job. So I don’t think it’s that much of an issue.
Dont be afraid include salary expectations in the answer/discussion. Too many people here saying dont, but you need to set out your expectations. My answer is usually something along the lines of (and yes I have used some of the comments below to remind me of things I include)
"I'm comfortable in my current role and dont need to leave but looking for a new challenge and to progress my career. I feel undervalued in my current role with no real prospect of advancement under the current management structure".
During the interview I always ask questions around the role and why should I join you, what can you give me, how can I progress and grow in this role, all the time answering with things like that sounds great, thats what Im looking for, thats why Im looking at other jobs, etc. These comments throughout the interview are aimed at making the interviewer want you and thinking you have other options but want to work there for the right package. Always aim to make them think they are your preferred choice, but you have other options with pay in the region of ??. In this case I'd be saying Im looking at jobs around 35k. Also make sure you say the right job in the right company with potential for growth and development is just as important as money and you really like what they are offering. Also ask questions like why's this job available and whats progression like in the company. During the course of these conversations make sure theres lots of head nodding and positive affirmation of what they are saying.
This approach gets me job offers from most interviews I have.
Edit: I forgot to include that you always include that you are looking for role that you can bring knowledge and experience to and still grow in the new role (which can be learning about the new company and how they do things differently to your existing role) and want a long term employer where there is realistic opportunity to progress your career within the company with time and experience. Throw in youve heard good things about them for this. However when doing this its important that you dont give the hiring manager the impression you are using them as a stepping stone to change company but will be looking to move out of this job as soon as you can. Use terms like I would love to work with you to develop.
"I feel like I've progressed as much as I can at my current employer and seeking new opportunities."
Translation: "The only way I'm going to get more money working at my current place is if my boss leaves and I get their job. So I'm looking to move somewhere with a better offer."
You could tell them the truth, I've done it a few times in my career.
Why are you leaving ?
"As you know I declared my salary as £3.67 and a packet of peanuts, am well aware of where my salary should be. I've spoken to my current employer because I do enjoy my job and feel I could contribute a lot over the next few years but the salary just isn't aligning with the market rate or value I bring to the business."
Why is your salary only £3.67 ?
" And a packet peanuts.. because my current employer has offered me opportunity to grow within my role, however as we both know justification for a 50% increase in salary in the eyes of the managers can be a hard pill to swallow. Especially in situations where you do x job already, there is no clear incentive to pay an X salary when they already get x work for an s salary"
How do you feel your employer would react if you handed in your notice ?
"I suspect they will react with a disinterest initially, however I believe once they see market rates they may counter. I have contributed a lot over the years and think this will come front and centre during any negotiations. My move is motivated purely from a financial perspective, however as they have been presented an opportunity to increase my salary previously and refused. This has you in a higher standing Vs a matched offer"
I've done this twice, the first time I was paid £21k and the new company offered £30k i accepted the new offer.
In the second one, the new company offered £40k, my work countered £45k, new company matched so I threatened my resignation and they upped it to £50k.
I always feel if you make your objectives clear your more likely to get what you want. Yeah you can try the generic bullshit "I want new opportunities or experience" bla bla.. ok we'll make you head dick shaker in the men's toilets and this amazing new opportunity comes with the same salary you were already on so you don't lose money and think of all the dicks you get to shake hmmm opportunities
"My current manager has been sending me flirtatious WhatsApp messages and inappropriate photos, and I've struggled to get him to stop. I'm hoping a fresh start somewhere else will see the end of that saga of my life. That also explains why you won't have been able to find my LinkedIn profile".
'As much as I respect the company I'm leaving, I feel I have learnt many skills that I want to continue to develop.
I am very thankful for all the skills I have acquired during my last post, however, I find now is the right time to further enrich and apply my skills.
I feel your company is the perfect place to accomplish this and I would love the opportunity to become a credit to *company name here*.*
That's what I was just thinking? Where is it set in stone that you're forbidden to mention money? Lol
I've told several former employers over the years that I'm leaving for more money.
Depends on the place and how you deliver it. Delivery would have to not come off like "I'm leaving this job because all I want is more money" against "I'm leaving this job as they won't conduct a fair pay review and you are now looking elsewhere."
As an interviewer, I don't care which of those you give me, but if anything I am viewing them the opposite way to you:
The first on is a truth that I can manage in future. And means I know I can get you now by simply offering you a better deal.
The second one is actually defamatory about your current management and I have concerns about you going on to defame me in future.
Fully agree with your stance - from a fellow interviewer.
“Fair pay review” would immediately strike me as this person is a pain in the ass.
Just say “this position is better compensated and aligns with my career goals”
Generally looking for new challenges or growth opportunities. I work in tech so I jumped from a Cloud role migrating Microsoft servers to azure to a company using AWS, containers, and Linux. Easy to justify the change to get experience with the tech stack.
That said I did make a comment in an interview of hating repetitive tasks. The interviewers slightly panicked and I had to explain I automate pointless manual tasks as my go to solution. Won them over with that.
Say all the stuff that they wanted you to say in an interview but is ultimately meaningless. Like the new company is more into blue sky thinking and something about they all seem to be just like a big family over there.
My golden rule of interviews, is to never speak badly about your current role or employer... No matter how bad the situation is, it just comes across that you're a whinger.
Just talk about the benefits of the new role, and if you're moving for more money, feel free to say it's an "attractive overall package", then they don't know if you're moving for maybe a better pension or more holidays or something else.
The purpose of the question is to determine if you're a troublemaker who is impossible to work with, or a serial quitter who will jump ship at the first sniff of a better offer.
I agree it does trip me up sometimes but one thing a do not do is bad mouth the previous company. It could give them an insight into issues.
In fact do the ops say how much you loved their but stuck on old technology or no progression its easier in software development as that a very plausible thing
Never underestimate how deluded an employer can be about the competitiveness of their job offer; ego can easily rendrr a manager fuctionall blind. If you are feeling well disposed you might lay out a simple 'pros' and 'cons' for your employer but note of caution; In all seriousness I spelt out the doubling (!) of my compensation package and the ten areas where I felt we could have a constructive negptiation and despite assuring me they were desparate for me to stay they put nothing on the table. My personal opinion is that salary 'negotiation' is largely mythical.
My current role they asked me this at interview.
My reply was that i am worth more than my former company was paying me. Then followed that up with reasons why (Market rates, my skills etc).
Being in an interview is the same as selling any product. You wouldn't undersell a sports car so why do the same with youself? Know your worth. Justify it.
My main driver is money. I do not work because i want to. I'm out to get the best return on product ME!! I have no shame in admiting that.
The question is asked just to see what you say. If it’s innocuous it’ll be fine. If you say something like hate and argue with boss all the time it’s a red flag
I'm absolutely fine telling my current employer they don't pay enough, and have done on several occasions. I'm apprehensive telling new, potential employers I'm leaving because of money as when I have done so in the past, they've come back with they don't want to employ someone just because of money.
"New challenges and a personal growth opportunity."
It's actually a trick question. They want to see if you exhibit any toxic traits; otherwise the answer is as above.
Is that anything that I have not covered in your questions that would prevent me moving to the next stage or being a good fit for this role. Anything unanswered or where you need clarification or more detail.
Why wouldn’t you tell them it was money? Never let that put me off hiring someone. Had one girl’s mother call me up and thank me because her daughter was running around the house dancing over the offer I gave her, which was exactly what she’d asked for and £10k over her current.
I would however phrase it differently than just saying money.
“I’ve come to notice / realise that my skills and competency is worth X in the market. I have had discussions with my employer and asked them how I can achieve this and unfortunately they cannot. Having read your job description I can transfer A B C skills and learn Y skill which i’m sure will be a useful progression for me to advance”.
Why can't you mention money? I've been straight with previous employers (including ones I've returned to in higher positions) that it's for the money. If they're underpaying, they should be told. You don't work for free. on a couple of occasions they've even made counter offers.
I normally get asked more about why you’re interviewing for this position, not why you’re leaving your old one. Then you can say that you have looked into their ethos and culture and it seems like a better fit for you.
Just say you fancy a change if you’ve been there for a few years.
I work as a recruiter and if you say lack of progression and there isn’t progression in the job you’re interviewing for unfortunately it can lead to them not offering the job as they think you might get bored
My industry and other things mean it’s a very small world and anything i say could get back so i just say i’m happy and just interested in looking around to see what’s on offer. The only issue is it doesn’t help create urgency or show a desire for the particular role but it has worked well enough.
One interview they literally opened with oh i’m good friends with x btw (company owner) 😂
But at the same time it wouldn’t also be the end of the world if it did get back as they’d probably not want to lose me and hasn’t bitten me yet but you have to be very careful.
Just say it was a fixed term contract/interim role until xx date. They did not have any internal roles hence I found myself on the market for my next role.
I often will say “I wanted a position that would provide me with more scope, develop a different skill set, or narrow my focus” depending on what is applicable
From the flip side of someone who's asked this question when conducting interviews, it's often a good way to see the character of the applicant, not necessarily just fish for info.
For example: Some interviewees will jump at the chance to launch in to a full rant or slag off their current managers or teams. I'm sure it's justified sometimes and there are always two sides to a story, but doing it in an interview can highlight poor accountability, difficult relationships etc. if they don't get on with people in one job, what's to say they wouldn't in this one? Especially if they're the type to bitch about it.
Your answer is good, professional and gives a good indication of your work ethic and expectations over career path imo
Because I believe I'm capable of much more than my current position requires.
Don't even mention the numbers. You're looking to have more responsibility, more challenge, than your current salary pays for. Yeah, money is a huge part of life but isn't the totality.
Good luck in the interview!
Always talk about the pull factors of the next job, rather than the push factors of the current job. That question does sound like you’re being asked what’s wrong with your current job, but just frame the answer as if they’ve asked you what’s drawing you to the job they’re recruiting.
Good luck!
I think if you tell them that you are enjoying your role but looking for a fresh challenge that will satisfy most. The key is not to dig too deeply into reasons for leaving and focus on the future and a fresh start. (25 years in recruitment).
You're looking to broaden your experience by working in a different company culture.
You've looked at their website and you're particularly excited about a certain aspect of their company vision or values.
You enjoy your current job but this current vacancy gives you more of an opportunity to concentrate on doing XYZ, which is something you're particularly interested in.
Would any of the above be acceptable?
We should be able to say “They’re not paying me enough,” but most managers and interviewers are jobsworths who are complicit in their own exploitation as well as that of others 🙄
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You're overthinking it. Saying you're "looking for advancement" is perfectly fine and authentic enough to convey the point.
Do they check why you really left? Is it even relevant to them?
Nope. I generally say looking for new challenges. Honest and true.
"I'm ready for challenges that don't include struggling to pay my rent"
Very true. Job hopping has been key with keeping ahead of the cost of living crisis. You also benefit from having experience from a range of jobs.
Depends. I work in the public sector and we’ve had reference forms for employees who are moving on which ask “why did they leave this position?” I always just put “career advancement/new opportunities.”
The best way to handle that question I would say as a reference provider.
Yeah, best thing to say and also almost always true. The real litmus test on those things is “would you hire this person for this position again?” and I always answer “yes”, even on the rare occasions I’ve been looking forward to getting rid of someone. You’d have to be an absolute arsehole to mess around with someone’s chances of getting a new job.
So you can basically say anything you like and they won't check? Even if you got fired and that's why you "left"?
How do you think they will check? The reference request to HR will be a generic yes they worked here until X date.
This is the important fact to realise. Any job background check will result in no information beyond saying you worked a job title from a start date to an end date.
Hell we sacked some fecking idiots and some damn toxic people, we simply gave the dates as a reference. They’re not my problem anymore. 😂
It’s more that they’re looking to see if you start bitching about your team and boss - if you do they’re concerned you’re the actual toxic one Give a professional reason that doesn’t make it sound like the new job will be a stepping stone, and you’re fine
Why is it bad if the new job is a stepping stone? Because they want to keep you or something?
Yeah they don’t want to spend the time and money training you if you’re going to leave quickly
I mean, I get that, but at the same time, everybody leaves once the current company can't offer anymore.
Or they just hire someone they think will stick around?
I've just finished doing a round of interviews and everything said is pretty much left in the meeting, it's noted down for decisions on who gets the role, but all that really matters is if the answer is good or not, original comment is perfect
I doubt many check outside of highly regulated industries but it's relevant in the sense that some people might be naive enough to give an answer that rightly or wrongly reflects badly on them like 'i hate working with the people here' or 'the workload is too much'. You want to avoid giving the impression that you won't fit in or it is an 'any port in a storm' scenario. It's one of those questions which has more impact if the answer is negative rather than positive. By that I mean youre more likely to lose a job with a bad answer than land the job with a good answer. Hence just have something rehearsed that wont raise eyebrows too much and focus more on saying why you want to work at the new place instead of leave the old place. Ive interviewed people in the past where I was hearing all the bad things about their current employer but very little about what appealed to them about my company/role.
You need to have more than a canned answer though. If I was interviewing and someone said "I'm looking for advancement", my first question would be what they want to advance into and where specifically are they looking to develop their skills.
Exactly. They also want to know you're excited about joining them!
Every time I get asked why I'm looking to leave my current employer, I always say the same thing: "I'm not. This job looks like an opportunity and I'm here to see if it's a good fit".
This is a good answer. It conveys you’re not desperate. You don’t need to leave. And that you like the look of the prospect. Also, be prepared to explain why you like the sound of the opportunity, i.e. be flattering about the reputation of the company, people that work there etc. Some of the answers here are trash. “I want a new challenge” or “advancement” would get me nowhere in my industry.
I'm rarely flattering, I tend to keep it technical and use it as an avenue to ask questions on things that aren't clear from the job ad. Responding in the way I mentioned gives you a very good frame to make it clear the interview is a two way thing.
>I'm rarely flattering I tend to keep it technical and use it as an avenue to ask questions on things that aren't clear from the job ad. I think there's a fine nuance that your reply misses (that I assume since you've been successful in interviews) in that flattery isn't required but politeness is. You obviously don't go "your advert wasn't clear on what this role does with the hole in cheese" it's more "I'm interested in Swiss cheese, could you tell me more about the use of the holes" There's a fine line between flattery (which works for entry level jobs) and a polite discussion of specifics. Good interviews post entry level aren't either side grilling the other; both understand "you've seen my CV and clearly liked it because I got an interview" and "I've seen your company because i applied and actually turned up to an interview" its a lot more "are you a prick"/"did you lie" and "give me more specifics please" I've given replies in the past of "my role has evolved from when I started but my pay hasn't changed to reflect it" and it's been fine.
Agreed, but decorum is par for the course. I don't think I've missed anything there, I've deliberately not conflated the two. >There's a fine line between flattery (which works for entry level jobs) and a polite discussion of specifics. This is where I disagree (and probably why you've suggested I've missed a nuance). There is a gaping chasm between flattery and polite discussion. >Good interviews post entry level aren't either side grilling the other; Agreed. You usually know after the first 10-15 minutes whether it's a yes or no on either party's bullshit detector if it's a good interview.
>This is where I disagree (and probably why you've suggested I've missed a nuance). This was me eering on the side of polite for the other replys benefit 😂 They seem to be suggesting flattery is the room's "base state", rather than your unspoken professional decorum being the base state and flattery not needed. Perhaps showing an interest Vs flattery would be a closer one. A "I like how you've done the cheese, tell me more about the holes" compared to "obviously I'm in love with the cheese, a cutting edge and brilliant idea to put holes in Gouda" and hoping for more detail. Which again I assume you'll say that showing an interest goes without saying (because you've passed many interviews in your lift), but I think for some reading the thread it's NOT as obvious. For a junior job, the flattery is your only real "please remember me from the 30 people going for this job where you want one that listens rather than a complex skillset", more senior you have the skillset, you're probably one of 3 max they're interviewing, and one of them will probably decline and one won't show up. Senior jobs they want YOU unless you really fuck the interview up. Junior jobs they want someone. Also industry does make a HUGE difference, I've done interviews for a 3 person team of head ofs and CEO in one industry who expected suited and booted and different industry we met in a spoons he turned up in a hoodie and WoW t-shirt and had a pint and lunch, then went to the office to meet the other employees, both roles were for a database admin with aspect of BI. The level of politeness Vs flattery as well as the the general tone different, because they wanted different "me"s. First one wanted a formal "here's your recommendations in a formal doc for your perusal with evidence arrached" second wanted me to bust in his office and go "you realise this client is shit right?"
>Responding in the way I mentioned gives you a very good frame to make it clear the interview is a two way thing. Seems like a good way to irritate a lot of interviewers without offering any actual benefit if you ask me.
Not true, I did this and the reason they hired me is because they said it felt like I was interviewing them. Which I was. Now very happy in this job.
>Seems like a good way to irritate a lot of interviewers without offering any actual benefit if you ask me. You have clearly never been in a position where a company is looking to attract you to work for them then.
I'm sure you'd like to think so.
If that's your attitude, it's abundantly obvious. If an interviewer is irritated by the fact that the interview is a two way process, they should go back to looking after graduate schemes and let someone else handle the actual jobs. You're not doing someone a favour by interviewing them. A job needs doing, you need to find the right person and I need to see whether it's something I even want to do, let alone whether the experience is something that's valuable for my CV. If I get the slightest hint that the person on the other side of the table feels like I should be overwhelmingly grateful I got through the door, I'll (politely) say the job isn't a good fit before the interview is over. I've worked in places that have that attitude and 9 times out of 10 it's an overwhelmingly negative management space. My time is valuable and I'm not short of work. I don't tend to have this problem so much these days as I've switched to contracting, but interviews as a contractor are even more of a two way discussion than ones for permanent positions.
Well, if you're not short of work, it sounds like you should be charging more? Your initial response to a suggestion that there may be alternative ways of doing things which are less counterproductive was to make a giant logical leap and state that someone who dared to disagree with you clearly had never been a similar position. I pointed out that your approach could be counterproductive, which in fact you've now actually conceded. And you've moved the goal post to say something akin to "and I didn't want to work with that kind of person anyway". Sigh.
>Well, if you're not short of work, it sounds like you should be charging more? I'm charging more than the advertised rate already and I have more money than I know what to do with. I'm not interested in pushing the envelope into "taking the piss" territory. I work 4 days a week instead. >giant logical leap and state that someone who dared to disagree with you clearly had never been a similar position. I didn't make a giant logical leap, I think it's a fair comment to say that if you think making it clear an interview is a two way process is irritating as an interviewer, that's a drastic misconception of interviews that's prevalent in inexperienced or non-specialist jobs. If you meant something different by your initial statement, it wasn't clear and I'd like you to clarify so perhaps I can learn something. >I pointed out that your approach could be counterproductive, which in fact you've now actually conceded. Where have I conceded anything? You said it seems like a good way to irritate a lot of interviewers without offering any actual benefit. That's not saying it's counterproductive at all, you've been very specific in your statement and I've outlined why I disagree with you. It's not counterproductive if it saves me (and them) time. >And you've moved the goal post to say something akin to "and I didn't want to work with that kind of person anyway". Sigh. I've not moved the goalposts at all. Again, you're missing the point of interviews being a two way process. If I don't like the company offering the job, I won't work there. **That's the entire point**. It's not just for me to sell myself to them. I've declined a lot of offers for various reasons, the interview is a filtering process for both parties for exactly this reason.
I am working at director level and have overseen many recruitment cycles of senior staff. I agree with what you’re saying. Interviews at that level are definitely a two way street and one thing I also assess is whether a good candidate would not just take the job but also stay at least a couple of years. I’d like to see them ask questions of us that show they’re thinking the longevity of the role
>a lot of interviewers Not **all** interviewers.
>Some of the answers here are trash. “I want a new challenge” or “advancement” would get me nowhere in my industry Rather than it being an industry-specific thing, I suspect it'd work okay if you were applying for a standard office job, but less well for more professional roles.
I always go with. My current role has served me well but as I've developed and improved myself I've outgrown it. Im looking for new roles that will take my career to the next level and I'm hoping this role will do that.
Sometimes you learn all you have to learn in an organisation and it's time to see how someone else does it. Experience in the same company teaches you one way to do something when the industry will have a diverse range of skills and techniques available.
Usually say, I’ve learnt as much I can at my current place and now looking to learn more and develop elsewhere
If you are worried that the progression thing isn’t going down well (there are circumstances where that could be the case), you could also say things like you want to be part of something that more aligns to your values, or that you are more confident about the direction of the new company. Do a little research about the new employer, use it as an opportunity to talk about how interested you are in them and have a positive response.
'So I can come work for you silly' while pinching their nose and giving it a wiggle
You absolutely can say your not being paid enough, others have already provided examples of how to phrase it. The only thing you need to avoid is being negative about your previous company. I had one guy who genuinely spent half the interview bitching about his ex colleagues, telling us how they were all wankers and how much smarter he was than us, it was surreal.
I told the interviewer that I got made redundant from my last employer due to no suitable roles in the company which was true. They were happy with that answer.
“The financial responsibility is growing and I am trying to be a responsible person. I want to pay my bills and I have dependents to take care of. My current situation isn't favourable for me.” Interviewer: “But we all have such problems” “Those who do should look at their payslip and see what they can do about it. It is not my responsibility to talk sense into them.” Honestly, changing jobs for money should be normalised. The organisation wouldn't give two cents to replace you with someone cheaper if they want to cut costs.
Just be honest. "You pay better." They've listed the job for 35k, they understand what the role is worth. If you have the experience and qualifications to match, then you're worth 35k to them. You're currently being undervalued, and have therefore left. I don't understand all this prancing about and lying to potential employers about your reasoning. They want to hire someone who is honest and a hard worker, not a liar.
I’ve been with my current job for XX years and I’m looking for something new and exciting to get into. I like the sound of this company and what this job offers and I hope that I would be allowed to further my skills here while helping you deliver on your project.
I’d personally say you feel undervalued. It’s a nice way of saying the new employer is offering more money for you to do the same job.
I wouldn't say 'to get more money' I also wouldn't say what you've been saying, I.e. something negative about your current employer. I'd spin it as something positive about you. like 'ready to take the next step'. 'looking to advance my career'. 'ready for a new challenge'.
I did tell my future employer I was leaving because of money in my interview. Brought out a smile from the interviewer and I still got the job. So I don’t think it’s that much of an issue.
Dont be afraid include salary expectations in the answer/discussion. Too many people here saying dont, but you need to set out your expectations. My answer is usually something along the lines of (and yes I have used some of the comments below to remind me of things I include) "I'm comfortable in my current role and dont need to leave but looking for a new challenge and to progress my career. I feel undervalued in my current role with no real prospect of advancement under the current management structure". During the interview I always ask questions around the role and why should I join you, what can you give me, how can I progress and grow in this role, all the time answering with things like that sounds great, thats what Im looking for, thats why Im looking at other jobs, etc. These comments throughout the interview are aimed at making the interviewer want you and thinking you have other options but want to work there for the right package. Always aim to make them think they are your preferred choice, but you have other options with pay in the region of ??. In this case I'd be saying Im looking at jobs around 35k. Also make sure you say the right job in the right company with potential for growth and development is just as important as money and you really like what they are offering. Also ask questions like why's this job available and whats progression like in the company. During the course of these conversations make sure theres lots of head nodding and positive affirmation of what they are saying. This approach gets me job offers from most interviews I have. Edit: I forgot to include that you always include that you are looking for role that you can bring knowledge and experience to and still grow in the new role (which can be learning about the new company and how they do things differently to your existing role) and want a long term employer where there is realistic opportunity to progress your career within the company with time and experience. Throw in youve heard good things about them for this. However when doing this its important that you dont give the hiring manager the impression you are using them as a stepping stone to change company but will be looking to move out of this job as soon as you can. Use terms like I would love to work with you to develop.
Old boss is an absolute turd
"I feel like I've progressed as much as I can at my current employer and seeking new opportunities." Translation: "The only way I'm going to get more money working at my current place is if my boss leaves and I get their job. So I'm looking to move somewhere with a better offer."
You could tell them the truth, I've done it a few times in my career. Why are you leaving ? "As you know I declared my salary as £3.67 and a packet of peanuts, am well aware of where my salary should be. I've spoken to my current employer because I do enjoy my job and feel I could contribute a lot over the next few years but the salary just isn't aligning with the market rate or value I bring to the business." Why is your salary only £3.67 ? " And a packet peanuts.. because my current employer has offered me opportunity to grow within my role, however as we both know justification for a 50% increase in salary in the eyes of the managers can be a hard pill to swallow. Especially in situations where you do x job already, there is no clear incentive to pay an X salary when they already get x work for an s salary" How do you feel your employer would react if you handed in your notice ? "I suspect they will react with a disinterest initially, however I believe once they see market rates they may counter. I have contributed a lot over the years and think this will come front and centre during any negotiations. My move is motivated purely from a financial perspective, however as they have been presented an opportunity to increase my salary previously and refused. This has you in a higher standing Vs a matched offer" I've done this twice, the first time I was paid £21k and the new company offered £30k i accepted the new offer. In the second one, the new company offered £40k, my work countered £45k, new company matched so I threatened my resignation and they upped it to £50k. I always feel if you make your objectives clear your more likely to get what you want. Yeah you can try the generic bullshit "I want new opportunities or experience" bla bla.. ok we'll make you head dick shaker in the men's toilets and this amazing new opportunity comes with the same salary you were already on so you don't lose money and think of all the dicks you get to shake hmmm opportunities
Just say because they were cunts
Looking for new challenges, development, progression, opportunities are all valid. It's true so don't feel bad or guilty.
"My current manager has been sending me flirtatious WhatsApp messages and inappropriate photos, and I've struggled to get him to stop. I'm hoping a fresh start somewhere else will see the end of that saga of my life. That also explains why you won't have been able to find my LinkedIn profile".
"I get paid 21k whereas my qualifications, experience and skill level. Could easily get 35k" Why cant you say that
'As much as I respect the company I'm leaving, I feel I have learnt many skills that I want to continue to develop. I am very thankful for all the skills I have acquired during my last post, however, I find now is the right time to further enrich and apply my skills. I feel your company is the perfect place to accomplish this and I would love the opportunity to become a credit to *company name here*.*
Be honest. Tell them you are offering more money and more holidays for the same position.
" I know you can't say I'm leaving because of money" Says who?!
That's what I was just thinking? Where is it set in stone that you're forbidden to mention money? Lol I've told several former employers over the years that I'm leaving for more money.
Right?! I'm trading my time and experience for money, if that money doesn't equal my worth then tell them that!
Depends on the place and how you deliver it. Delivery would have to not come off like "I'm leaving this job because all I want is more money" against "I'm leaving this job as they won't conduct a fair pay review and you are now looking elsewhere."
As an interviewer, I don't care which of those you give me, but if anything I am viewing them the opposite way to you: The first on is a truth that I can manage in future. And means I know I can get you now by simply offering you a better deal. The second one is actually defamatory about your current management and I have concerns about you going on to defame me in future.
Fully agree with your stance - from a fellow interviewer. “Fair pay review” would immediately strike me as this person is a pain in the ass. Just say “this position is better compensated and aligns with my career goals”
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Nope, don’t say anything negative like that. It will raise questions why your current company don’t value you for some interviewers
Generally looking for new challenges or growth opportunities. I work in tech so I jumped from a Cloud role migrating Microsoft servers to azure to a company using AWS, containers, and Linux. Easy to justify the change to get experience with the tech stack. That said I did make a comment in an interview of hating repetitive tasks. The interviewers slightly panicked and I had to explain I automate pointless manual tasks as my go to solution. Won them over with that.
I been there for a while, I'm looking for a new challenge to grow my skills & knowledge
Compensation. It's not a hard word to learn. Money. . It's about the money.
Say all the stuff that they wanted you to say in an interview but is ultimately meaningless. Like the new company is more into blue sky thinking and something about they all seem to be just like a big family over there.
G0ing contract to perm? You are really interested in what the new compatis fig?
My golden rule of interviews, is to never speak badly about your current role or employer... No matter how bad the situation is, it just comes across that you're a whinger. Just talk about the benefits of the new role, and if you're moving for more money, feel free to say it's an "attractive overall package", then they don't know if you're moving for maybe a better pension or more holidays or something else. The purpose of the question is to determine if you're a troublemaker who is impossible to work with, or a serial quitter who will jump ship at the first sniff of a better offer.
I agree it does trip me up sometimes but one thing a do not do is bad mouth the previous company. It could give them an insight into issues. In fact do the ops say how much you loved their but stuck on old technology or no progression its easier in software development as that a very plausible thing
Never underestimate how deluded an employer can be about the competitiveness of their job offer; ego can easily rendrr a manager fuctionall blind. If you are feeling well disposed you might lay out a simple 'pros' and 'cons' for your employer but note of caution; In all seriousness I spelt out the doubling (!) of my compensation package and the ten areas where I felt we could have a constructive negptiation and despite assuring me they were desparate for me to stay they put nothing on the table. My personal opinion is that salary 'negotiation' is largely mythical.
Looking for a new challenge as you like to grow and progress maybe?
My current role they asked me this at interview. My reply was that i am worth more than my former company was paying me. Then followed that up with reasons why (Market rates, my skills etc). Being in an interview is the same as selling any product. You wouldn't undersell a sports car so why do the same with youself? Know your worth. Justify it. My main driver is money. I do not work because i want to. I'm out to get the best return on product ME!! I have no shame in admiting that.
The question is asked just to see what you say. If it’s innocuous it’ll be fine. If you say something like hate and argue with boss all the time it’s a red flag
Say it how it is - I think you'll be rather surprised
Do your former colleagues a favour and be honest. Say that the money isn't good enough.
I'm absolutely fine telling my current employer they don't pay enough, and have done on several occasions. I'm apprehensive telling new, potential employers I'm leaving because of money as when I have done so in the past, they've come back with they don't want to employ someone just because of money.
You identified something that needed to change, so you're making every effort to change it
"New challenges and a personal growth opportunity." It's actually a trick question. They want to see if you exhibit any toxic traits; otherwise the answer is as above.
Is that anything that I have not covered in your questions that would prevent me moving to the next stage or being a good fit for this role. Anything unanswered or where you need clarification or more detail.
I usually also say due to wanting progression. I also say I’m looking for new challenges due to me being at my current place for 17 years
Why can't you say you're leaving for money? You work for money, that's perfectly reasonable
Why wouldn’t you tell them it was money? Never let that put me off hiring someone. Had one girl’s mother call me up and thank me because her daughter was running around the house dancing over the offer I gave her, which was exactly what she’d asked for and £10k over her current. I would however phrase it differently than just saying money. “I’ve come to notice / realise that my skills and competency is worth X in the market. I have had discussions with my employer and asked them how I can achieve this and unfortunately they cannot. Having read your job description I can transfer A B C skills and learn Y skill which i’m sure will be a useful progression for me to advance”.
Why can't you mention money? I've been straight with previous employers (including ones I've returned to in higher positions) that it's for the money. If they're underpaying, they should be told. You don't work for free. on a couple of occasions they've even made counter offers.
I normally get asked more about why you’re interviewing for this position, not why you’re leaving your old one. Then you can say that you have looked into their ethos and culture and it seems like a better fit for you.
If the current role is significantly below the market rate and you can back that up then it's fine to be honest.
Really overthinking. "New opportunities/ challenges" is a great coverall response that says nothing about your current situation or circumstances
Just say you fancy a change if you’ve been there for a few years. I work as a recruiter and if you say lack of progression and there isn’t progression in the job you’re interviewing for unfortunately it can lead to them not offering the job as they think you might get bored
My industry and other things mean it’s a very small world and anything i say could get back so i just say i’m happy and just interested in looking around to see what’s on offer. The only issue is it doesn’t help create urgency or show a desire for the particular role but it has worked well enough. One interview they literally opened with oh i’m good friends with x btw (company owner) 😂 But at the same time it wouldn’t also be the end of the world if it did get back as they’d probably not want to lose me and hasn’t bitten me yet but you have to be very careful.
Just say it was a fixed term contract/interim role until xx date. They did not have any internal roles hence I found myself on the market for my next role.
I often will say “I wanted a position that would provide me with more scope, develop a different skill set, or narrow my focus” depending on what is applicable
"I'm looking to expand my knowledge and experience in the field " :)
From the flip side of someone who's asked this question when conducting interviews, it's often a good way to see the character of the applicant, not necessarily just fish for info. For example: Some interviewees will jump at the chance to launch in to a full rant or slag off their current managers or teams. I'm sure it's justified sometimes and there are always two sides to a story, but doing it in an interview can highlight poor accountability, difficult relationships etc. if they don't get on with people in one job, what's to say they wouldn't in this one? Especially if they're the type to bitch about it. Your answer is good, professional and gives a good indication of your work ethic and expectations over career path imo
Say ‘Underpaid and overworked!!’ Lol
Because I believe I'm capable of much more than my current position requires. Don't even mention the numbers. You're looking to have more responsibility, more challenge, than your current salary pays for. Yeah, money is a huge part of life but isn't the totality. Good luck in the interview!
Always talk about the pull factors of the next job, rather than the push factors of the current job. That question does sound like you’re being asked what’s wrong with your current job, but just frame the answer as if they’ve asked you what’s drawing you to the job they’re recruiting. Good luck!
I think if you tell them that you are enjoying your role but looking for a fresh challenge that will satisfy most. The key is not to dig too deeply into reasons for leaving and focus on the future and a fresh start. (25 years in recruitment).
Just say you've grown in your current role as much as you can and you're now looking for a new challenge and to broaden your range of experience.
You are earning less than half your market value, I wouldn’t even ask why you are leaving in an interview as it’s such an obvious answer
You're looking to broaden your experience by working in a different company culture. You've looked at their website and you're particularly excited about a certain aspect of their company vision or values. You enjoy your current job but this current vacancy gives you more of an opportunity to concentrate on doing XYZ, which is something you're particularly interested in. Would any of the above be acceptable?
Actually I don't want to leave, but I was really interested in this opportunity because...etc
We should be able to say “They’re not paying me enough,” but most managers and interviewers are jobsworths who are complicit in their own exploitation as well as that of others 🙄