How to answer "why are you looking for a new job?" in an interview
When interviewing for a new job, the interviewer frequently wants to know the reasons behind your interest in a new position. This question can be phrased in various ways, including "Why are you leaving your current job?" or "Why are you seeking a new opportunity?" Therefore, it is beneficial to be prepared with a response to this query during an interview.

Your answers to interview questions help shape your professional story. The more information you provide, the more likely your strengths will be highlighted throughout the interview. Therefore, you should offer thoughtful and detailed responses to the interviewers, recruiters, or hiring managers.
When interviewing for a position, hiring managers often ask, "Why are you looking for a new job?"
Hiring managers or recruiters ask this question seeking more than a straightforward response. As mentioned by Top Interview, this question is significant for the following reasons:
- To assess your motivation
- To gain insight into your career path
- To learn more about your professional values and passions
- To identify any potential areas of concern or warning signs.
- To determine if you meet the requirements for the open job position.
- To gather more information in support of making an informed decision.
- To comprehend how you perceive your current and future roles.
- Would you intend to remain with the organization once you have received an offer?
Example: "I have the opportunity to relocate to join my partner's workplace. I'm looking for a new challenge and the chance to build positive relationships with my future colleagues while working for a company that aligns with my values."
During an interview, the interviewer or hiring manager may ask, "What prompted you to seek a new job opportunity?" This inquiry enables them to gain insight into your professional background while also gaining insight into your motivations for joining the organization.
Learning the best response to "Why are you looking for a job change" can be helpful in showcasing yourself as the ideal candidate for the position. Here is everything you need to know about how to answer it:
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You're ready to provide an accurate answer. Your response can be straightforward, such as seeking a new challenge, or more intricate, such as leaving on your own terms. To answer the question effectively, follow the below four-step guide, which includes examples.
Start with your skills
To provide a strong response, ensure that your approach mirrors the interviewer's perspective. As they are seeking to understand your qualifications, be certain to convey your desire to utilize your skills in a meaningful way.

:
Over the past few years, I have been refining my skills and abilities, and I am now seeking a location where I can further develop and apply them.
Explain your motivation
Many recruitment organisations expect job candidates to be inspired by more than just financial rewards. Hence, you should directly answer this question by explaining what drives and motivates you. Sample response:
I'd like the role to enable me to directly share my results and ideas with clients. Which is uplifting! I'm consistently driven to see how my work can have a positive effect on others.
Link with your long-term objectives.
When organisations typically hire new employees, they are making a significant investment in their collective potential. As a result, they are generally interested in long-term opportunities, rather than short-term projects. Hence, unless you are applying for a specific, short-term role, the recruiters should be aware that you are in it for the long run.
You can demonstrate your long-term commitment to the organization by sharing your vision for how you see yourself progressing within the company. Here is a sample example:
I'm looking for a role that offers opportunities for career growth, as professional development is one of my key priorities. Ultimately, I aim to assume management responsibilities and duties in the long term.
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Refocus the conversation on the hiring organisation towards the end of your response. You can discuss what motivates your enthusiasm to join the company. You can respond in a manner like this:
As I conclude, I would be happy to be in a situation where I can make a positive difference as I continuously develop professionally as well. Moreover, the company's objectives and purpose motivate me, and I am enthusiastic about this job opportunity.
* Focus on what you're looking for in a new job or company, rather than what you're looking to escape from.
When applying for a job, the recruiter will be interested in understanding your motivations. Questions like "Why are you applying for this role?", "Why are you looking for a new job?" or "Why do you want to change positions within the company?" will allow you to demonstrate your reasons for applying.
They Share some tips to craft the best response regardless of the phrasing:
- Be honest
- Keep it simple
- Keep it positive
- Look back at your previous achievements.

- I'm interested in pursuing a career that offers ongoing learning and growth opportunities, allowing me to continuously develop and expand my skills, ultimately enabling me to tackle increasingly complex challenges and make meaningful contributions to the organization.
- Conduct an in-depth investigation into the organization and its core principles.
- Align yourself with the hiring organization's goals and mission.
Instead, say: "I'm looking for a flexible work arrangement that allows me to achieve a better work-life balance."
Understanding what to express is one matter, but knowing what to refrain from saying in certain situations is equally crucial. Consequently, when answering the question, "Why are you pursuing other career opportunities at this time?" here are some points to steer clear of:
Badmouthing your former organization
Speaking in a critical manner about your previous employer shows a lack of professional decorum. It may also indicate your inability to manage workplace discrepancies.
Setting unrealistic expectations
You should set ambitions and remain driven, but only discuss achievable objectives.
Focusing on the salary
Discussing financial aspects can lead a hiring manager to believe that you place little value on the job or the company, implying that you would readily leave for a more attractive opportunity.
Complaining about co-workers
During an interview, it's best not to place blame but rather to concentrate on your goals and self-improvement.
Discussing personal issues
You should not mention personal challenges as the primary motivation for being open to change right now. Instead, focus on professional growth opportunities and other relevant reasons.
Sharing sensitive information
You should refrain from revealing any confidential information regarding your previous employer.
Be prepared to share a brief explanation, but avoid going into too much detail. You can say something like, "I'm looking for a better opportunity to balance my work and personal life" without elaborating further.
- When an interviewer asks why you're looking for a new job, you can provide various reasons, encompassing the desire for a fresh opportunity.
- To demonstrate your suitability for a job, describe your relevant skills and knowledge in detail.
- When asked 'What motivates you' during an interview, a suitable response is to express motivation stemming from the opportunity to constantly learn new things and tackle fresh challenges.
- To conclude an interview, it is essential to restate your enthusiasm for the job opportunity without appearing nervous or overly eager.
- What specific qualities would you highlight during the course of an interview? Some key areas include the ability to adapt, sales proficiency, effective time management, collaborative teamwork, and meticulous attention to detail.
- When should you initiate a job interview? It is best if you commence the meeting with a friendly greeting, after which you introduce yourself.
- When meeting the hiring manager for the first time, how do you make a good impression? Extend your hand, offer a firm handshake to demonstrate your confidence and self-assurance, and show a warm smile while maintaining direct eye contact.
Final word
Before attending the interview for your desired job opening, you should perfect how to respond to "why are you looking for a new job?" This response is your opportunity to present your motivation and secure the job. It will allow you to demonstrate your alignment with the hiring organization's objectives.
A recent article by Wander Thoughts.co.ke discusses whether a second interview can be a positive indicator for a job applicant. A second interview typically occurs after a candidate has completed the initial interview, is usually conducted in person, and often takes place immediately. Furthermore, the second interview tends to be longer, lasting several hours or even up to a whole day.
You are deemed a top candidate for the position, as evidenced by the second interview. This opportunity allows you to shine and showcase your qualifications. Therefore, be thoroughly prepared as the questions will be more in-depth and targeted.