How to explain your reasons for leaving a job (with examples)

One of the most common interview questions interviewees face is: "Why are you leaving your current job?" And the most daunting part is that your answer can shape a interviewer’s first impression, positively or negatively. 

Whether you're job hunting after a redundancy, looking for better opportunities, or just approaching that dreaded burnout stage. It's important to communicate your reasons clearly, confidently, and professionally. 

In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common (and acceptable) reasons for leaving a job, show you how to explain them clearly in interviews and applications, and finally, provide real-life examples to help you respond with confidence. 

Why do employers ask why you're leaving a job? 

When a hiring manager asks why you're leaving your current role, they’re not just curious, they’re looking for clues about how you handle challenges, what kind of environment you thrive in, and whether you're likely to be a good cultural fit for their team. 

They want to understand: 

• Your career goals 
• How you deal with difficult situations 
• Whether your expectations align with what the company offers 
   

In short, they’re looking for insight into both your past experience and future potential. They’re also trying to understand whether your decision to leave makes sense, and most importantly, whether your next step aligns with what they can offer. 

What’s a good reason for leaving a job? 

There’s no single “right” reason for leaving a job, but some reasons are easier to explain than others. The strongest answers are honest, forward-looking, and relevant to your career. These could include: 

• Wanting more growth or challenge 
• Relocating for personal or family reasons 
• Looking for a better work-life balance 
• Recovering from layoffs or company restructuring 
• Pursuing education or new skills 
• Even if your experience was difficult, you can still constructively present your decision. 
   

15 acceptable reasons for leaving a job (with example answers) 
 

1. You're ready to grow professionally 

You’ve hit a ceiling in your current role and want to take on new challenges, lead projects, or expand your skill set. 

"I’ve really enjoyed my time in this role, but I’ve reached a point where there’s limited room to grow. I’m looking for something that pushes me professionally." 

2. You want to change industries 

You’re interested in a new type of work or a sector that aligns better with your passions. 

"I’m interested in applying my skills in a different industry — one that’s more in line with where I see myself long-term." 

3. You’ve relocated 

A move to a new city or region requires a fresh start. 

"I relocated recently and am looking for opportunities in my new area that will let me continue developing my career." 

4. Your company restructured 

Your role was eliminated or changed due to company changes beyond your control. 

"My role was impacted by a company-wide restructure. I’m now focusing on finding a long-term position where I can contribute and grow." 

5. You need better work-life balance 

Your schedule or workload isn’t sustainable, and you’re looking for a healthier setup. 

"I’ve realised I do my best work in environments that support a healthier work-life balance. That’s something I’m prioritising in my next role." 

6. You want remote or hybrid work 

Your current company doesn’t support flexible work — but that’s important to you. 

"I’ve found that I’m most productive in a remote or hybrid model, and I’m looking for roles that support that flexibility." 

7. You're returning after time away 

You’ve taken a break for personal or professional reasons and are ready to get back to work. 

"After taking some time off to focus on [family/travel/study], I’m excited to return to full-time work with fresh energy." 

8. You want better compensation 

You feel confident your current pay doesn’t reflect your value or responsibilities. 

"While pay isn’t my only priority, I am looking for a role that’s more aligned with my experience and the value I bring." 

9. The company culture isn’t the right fit 

The work might be fine, but the environment isn’t helping you thrive. 

"I’ve realised how important it is for me to work in a culture that values [add topic], and that’s something I’m seeking in my next role." 

10. You want to specialise 

You’re currently doing a bit of everything, but you’d rather focus on one area. 

"I’ve realised that I want to deepen my expertise in [X area], and I’m looking for a role that allows me to do that." 

11. Your contract ended 

You were on a fixed-term or project-based assignment that’s now wrapping up. 

"My last position was a contract role that’s now ended, so I’m looking for a long-term opportunity where I can contribute and grow." 

12. A better opportunity came up 

A trusted contact offered a promising role, even if it wasn’t your plan initially. 

"I was approached by someone I’d worked with before about a new opportunity. It made sense at the time, but now I’m looking for something more aligned with my longer-term goals." 

13. You went back to school 

You paused your career to focus on education and are now ready to return. 

"I stepped away to complete my studies and now I’m eager to apply what I’ve learned in a new position." 

14. You weren’t being challenged 

The work became repetitive or didn’t stretch you anymore. 

"I’m proud of what I achieved in my current role, but I’m ready for something that will help me continue growing professionally." 

15. You were let go 

Whether it was a mismatch or a performance issue, you’ve taken time to reflect. 

"The role and I weren’t the right match. I’ve taken some time to reflect on the experience, and I’m now focused on finding the right long-term fit." 

How to explain your reason in an interview 

When you're preparing your answer, keep these three points in mind. They'll help you come across as confident, professional, and focused: 

• Be brief. Try to stick to 1–2 sentences 
• Stay positive. Avoid complaining or oversharing 
• Be honest, but selective. Share the truth, but focus on your next career steps 

Example: 

“I’ve learned a lot in my current role, but I’m now looking for a position with more opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and leadership.” 

What not to say (even if it’s true) 

There are some things best left unsaid in interviews, even if they’re true. Why? Because comments like these can come across as unprofessional or suggest that you haven’t learned from the experience. Employers may worry that you’ll speak the same way about them in the future. Instead, focus on how you managed to resign professionally and what you learned from the experience. 

Avoid explanations like: 

• “I hated my boss.” 
• “The job was boring.” 
• “I didn’t get along with my team.” 
• “I wanted to work less.” 

Instead, reframe with care: 

• Poor management -  "I’m looking for more mentorship and structure." 
• Boredom - "I’m ready for a role with more challenges." 
• Conflict -  "I’m seeking a culture that values open communication." 
   

Tips for answering follow-up questions 

Interviewers may want to dig deeper after your initial answer to better understand your reasoning and mindset. Here are a few common follow-up questions and how to handle them: 

• “Did you try to resolve the issue before deciding to leave?” 
  Be honest about your efforts. Showing that you made attempts to grow or adapt demonstrates maturity and determination.  

• “How did you leave things with your previous employer?” 
  Emphasise professionalism and explain that you gave proper notice, maintained good relationships, or ensured a smooth handover. You don’t want to come across as problematic. 

• “How do you know this role will be a better fit?” 
  Tie this to your research about the company and role. Start by mentioning how this aligns with your goals, values, or preferred work style. 

• “What would you do differently in your next role?” 
  Use this opportunity to highlight what you’ve learned and how you plan to grow from past experiences. 

Final thoughts: Reasons for leaving a job 

Leaving a job isn’t something to be ashamed of. It's a big step, and it's a normal part of building your career. As long as your reason is honest, future-focused, and professionally communicated, most hiring managers will understand, especially if you explain it with clarity and confidence. 

Prepare a calm, well-reasoned response, and focus on how your next move fits your long-term goals. That’s what good interviewers are really listening for.