Stepping into a new job comes with reasons for leaving an old role, a chance to refresh your personal brand and sometimes emotional baggage. It can be exciting but also sometimes a smidge nerve-wracking. Regardless of why you’re planning to leave, it’s a story you’ll tell. Think of your career journey much like crossing a series of bridges. So, when the clock ticks for a job change, how you share your “why” can either strengthen that bridge or put a dent in it.
Let’s dig into common reasons for leaving and the best answers for why you’re choosing to.
Unreasonable workload
The more time you spend working, the less work-life integration and it’s a top factor for workers across every generation except for baby boomers, according to a report from a leading career development and search platform, The Muse.
Toxic workplace culture
Workplace culture was the reason most people gave as a contributing factor to their decision to look for another job (34%), especially for Millennials (39%), according to The Muse.
Lack of flexibility or job security
More than a quarter of respondents in the study (26%) cited lack of flexibility and/or policies regarding work from home or remote work as a cause for seeking a new job, second only to a toxic culture. Anticipation of future layoffs tied with salary freezes was the third most common reason respondents gave as a factor for looking for a new position.
Discrimination and harassment
An environment tainted by discrimination or harassment can prompt seeking a better place, as can taking on too much of the DEI employee resource group burden, which in some companies is sadly still an unpaid extra task.
Compensation and appreciation
Poor pay and benefits and a lack of recognition and appreciation also often drive people to look elsewhere. Companies can only stay competitive with these critical needs, and you deserve them.
Greater career fulfillment
We change and grow; what you loved yesterday may not be as fulfilling today. Perhaps you’re seeking new challenges or broader responsibilities resulting in opportunities to grow personally and professionally.
If you don’t hate your job and your main reason for leaving is, let’s say, positive, here’s how to address it with the respective employers.
Current employer
“I have enjoyed (mention where you’ve driven impact) and feel grateful for my time here. An opportunity has come up that aligns more with my personal and professional aspirations. It was a decision I carefully thought through, and I’ll continue to wear the company’s hat.”
Potential employer
“I made the call to leave my previous role because I’m ready for more personal and professional growth. I’d recommend the role to high-achievers looking for (why you’ve outgrown the role), and I’m excited to bring my skills to a team focused on (their biggest challenge).”
How to handle your answer if your reason for leaving is more negative.
Give yourself space to process why you’re leaving. You could journal, speak to a coach, trusted confidant or all of the above. By doing so, you also get to release it all. You may also want to reflect on what you’ve done to influence change so you can build on and take those career skills into your next role.
If you’ve experienced inequity or toxicity, it’s common for the emotional baggage to follow you unless you deal with it, and another way to do so is by re-framing your narrative. Words can change the effect on the brain. Tell yourself, “My role has brought me to where I am today, and I choose to be grateful for the growth.” The goal is not to discount your experience but instead, let your growth journey take the spotlight.
Current employer
“I really believe in (say something helpful or positive about the company’s mission), and my time here has been one of personal growth. I’ve decided to take my learnings with me and will be leaving my role.”
Potential employer
“I’m thankful for all the lessons and experiences from my role, and I’m excited about a new chapter that aligns with (mention up to three of the company’s core values or talk about an aspect of their mission). It’s something my job has led me to work towards and uniquely equipped me for.”
Or you could say:
“My current role allowed me to exercise (mention up to three technical skills that your desired job is seeking), and I, in turn, developed (mention up to three soft skills). I’m now looking to drive greater organizational impact; from my research, this culture is a great place to do that.”
Skillfully mastering your narrative around your reasons for leaving reflects your professionalism and self-awareness, setting you up for further success. Sending you positive vibes!
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