Interview Question: “Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?
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Summary
## 00:00:00 - 00:00:37
Handling the 'Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?' Question
- 00:00:00 The speaker highlights the inevitability of being asked 'Why did you
leave your last job?' in an interview.
- 00:00:09 He clarifies that this advice is for those with prior work experience,
directing first-time job seekers to other resources.
- 00:00:24 The speaker promises to provide specific scripts and strategies for
various scenarios related to leaving a previous job.
## 00:00:37 - 00:02:16
How to Answer "Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?"
- 00:00:37 When discussing why you left your last job, never speak negatively
about your former boss or company, as it can make you seem like you hold grudges or
badmouth others.
- 00:01:02 Avoid sharing personal and emotional reasons like feeling undervalued
or underpaid, as this can raise concerns for a potential employer about your
attitude.
- 00:01:27 A good response involves acknowledging positive experiences at your
previous job, mentioning accomplishments, and then explaining that you are seeking
new challenges and opportunities for growth.
- 00:01:55 This approach demonstrates a personal drive for growth and a desire for
a larger platform, which is a positive trait for employers, without badmouthing
anyone.
## 00:02:16 - 00:03:34
Addressing Layoffs in an Interview
- 00:02:16 If you were laid off due to corporate restructuring, avoid a direct and
emotional account of receiving a termination letter.
- 00:02:41 Instead, explain the company's situation, such as a gaming company's
unsuccessful game investments leading to significant financial losses.
- 00:03:00 Frame the layoff as a consequence of the company's business decisions,
making it sound neutral and impersonal, rather than an attack or a personal
failing.
- 00:03:22 After setting the stage with the company's situation, connect your
experience to your skillsets and what you can offer the new company.
## 00:03:34 - 00:04:42
Addressing Being Fired in an Interview
- 00:03:38 If you were fired due to attitude, performance, or personality, it's
crucial to reflect on areas for improvement to avoid repeating the same issues in a
new role.
- 00:03:58 When explaining why you left, highlight your accomplishments and
contributions at your previous company, emphasizing the results you achieved.
- 00:04:15 Frame your departure by stating that the company's vision or management
changed, and your strengths no longer aligned with their new direction.
- 00:04:28 Conclude by expressing your desire for new challenges and your
readiness to apply your learned skills, experience, and contacts to the new
position.
## 00:04:42 - 00:05:27
Professionalism in Answering Why You Left Your Last Job
- 00:04:42 Act, talk, and behave like a professional, avoiding emotional responses
when discussing why you left your previous job.
- 00:04:57 Maintain a neutral stance and avoid badmouthing or putting down anyone
from your previous employment.
- 00:05:08 Do not spend too much time on this question; avoid going on and on
about your entire history with the company.
- 00:05:14 Keep your answer concise, ideally within 30 seconds to one minute, to
demonstrate professionalism.