Learn how best to answer this common interview question

Preparing for your upcoming interview is a smart step, and luckily, there are some common interview questions that almost always pop up. That makes preparation much easier, as you can research and plan your answers without the pressure of having to think on the spot. In this article, we're looking at how to answer the interview question “Why are you looking for a new job?” and, just as importantly, how not to answer it. 

Other ways the question might be phrased

Of course, the interviewer may not directly ask the question, “Why are you looking for a new job?”. You might also hear the same question phrased another way, such as: 

  • Why are you looking for new opportunities?

  • What is the primary reason you are seeking a new opportunity?

  • Why are you seeking a new position?

  • Why are you looking for a job change?

Why do interviewers ask, “Why are you looking for a new job?”

There are several reasons why this is a popular interview question. Firstly, it helps the interviewer evaluate whether the role offers what you're looking for as a next step. If not, they'd be justified in thinking you'll soon leave, and they'll have to recruit for the same role again. 

Secondly, it helps assess your enthusiasm for the role. Are you genuinely excited about the vacancy and the company? Do your values and motivations match theirs?

Thirdly, this question helps the interviewer to spot red flags. If you're negative about your current employer or mention toxic colleagues, they could see this as a sign that you create problems or bring drama to a role. 

In short, your answer to this question can help the interviewer decide whether your motivations align with what they need. 

How to answer “Why are you looking for a new job?”

Let's think about the best ways to answer this question first. There are some reasons that will always strike the right note with interviewers, such as: 

  • Career progression: This is always a great reason to seek a new role, as it shows ambition and a willingness to continue learning and contributing. 
  • New challenges: A willingness to take on challenges rather than stagnating and to seek variety rather than repetition positions you as a dynamic employee.
  • Industry developments: If you've identified trends and developments in your industry that you find exciting and that you can explore further at the company, make sure you highlight this.
  • Practical reasons: A three-hour commute or a better work-life balance are perfectly valid reasons for seeking a new role. 
When you're explaining your reasons for your job search, it's important to: 
  • Be honest: Interviewers can tell if you're fibbing and telling them what you think they want to hear.
  • Stay positive: No one wants to work with someone who complains all the time and badmouths their colleagues or employer.
  • Do your research into the company: Ensure your answer aligns with their requirements 
  • Practice your answer: Rope in a friend or family member to help you practice aloud and hone your response to sound genuine and enthusiastic.

Expert tip: Whatever response you give to this question, make sure you tie it into the role or the company's needs. 

Bad responses to “Why are you looking for a new job?”

Naturally, there are some responses that won't give such a good impression. They include: 

  • Speaking negatively about your current employer: This is a huge red flag for interviewers, as they'll picture you speaking negatively about their business, too.
  • Speaking negatively about your current colleagues: Badmouthing colleagues, however justified, makes you sound difficult to work with. No one wants to work with someone who creates friction in the office and can't handle conflict professionally. 
  • Focusing on the salary: Of course, this is a key driver for people looking for a new role. While it's OK to mention wanting a higher salary, it shouldn't be the only reason you give. 

To give the right impression, it's important not to: 

  • Be too vague: An authentic response will have a level of detail to it. Whatever your reason for seeking a new role, explain why your current role doesn't offer that and why you think this role will. 
  • Come across as desperate: Make yourself sound in demand! Additionally, interviewers like to think you want the job they have at that specific company – not just the first job to come along.
  • Focus on your needs rather than the company's needs: While the question is clearly about your motivation for changing jobs, you should take care to align your motivation with what they're looking for. There's no point, for example, saying that you're looking for a leadership role if the vacancy doesn't involve managing a team. 

“Why are you looking for a new job?” sample answers

Let's take a look at some example answers to “Why are you looking for a new job?”.

For career progression:

“I actually love my current job, but I've been doing it for four years now, and I feel ready to take on additional responsibility. I can't see the opportunity to do that at my current company, as my manager is settled in his role and isn't planning to move on any time soon. Therefore, I've decided to look elsewhere to secure the step up I'm looking for. ABC Corp seems like the ideal company for me to do this, as I already have an in-depth knowledge of the industry and a wide network of contacts. Having deputized for my manager in his absence, I feel more than ready to take on the leadership responsibilities associated with this role.”

For new challenges:

“I feel like I've learned all I can in my current role, so I'm looking to broaden my horizons with new challenges and more exposure to the industry. While I like what I do, it's becoming routine, and I like to keep on my toes. This role will enable me to use what I've done so far whilst also taking on more project work, which I'm sure will give me the variety and perspective I need to satisfy my need for being challenged.”

For practical reasons: 

“My parents aren't getting any younger, and to be honest, it's time for me to take on some extra tasks to support them. By cutting down my current long commute to work more locally, I'll be able to help them with chores such as shopping and cooking without impacting my career. Your business is known for looking after its staff and offering a great work-life balance and I'm sure that we'll benefit each other, as I have the leadership experience and analysis skills you're looking for. I remain truly committed to my job, and I'll be able to continue giving my all when I have the flexibility to balance work with these new demands on my time.”

A bad response to “Why are you looking for a new job?”

You've seen some model answers, so it's time to look at what not to say!

“I need to earn a decent salary. I'm really underpaid for all I do at the moment, and Karen keeps taking all the credit for my work. I really need to get out of there and find a job where they appreciate everything I do for them and aren't always having a go at me.”

Land more interviews so you can use the answers you've practiced!

They say that practice makes perfect – and it's true! The more interviews you do, the more confident you'll get and the more you can hone your answers. Increase your interview invitations with a knock-out resume that leaves hiring managers rushing to speak to you. 

Submit your resume now for a free resume review by the experts at TopResume. They'll identify areas for improvement so that you know you're putting your best foot forward every time. 

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