By: Michael R. Neece, CEO Interview Mastery
Describing why you left (or seeking to leave) your last position causes anxiety when you’re not
prepared to handle this question. The following guidelines provide details on how to navigate
this interview question.
Be Succinct
Describe the reason for your departure directly and succinctly. Do not go into great detail unless
they ask. The longer you speak on the subject the more suspicious the interviewer becomes. For
example: When you’re asked why you left you could state: “My company merged with another
firm and the new management wanted to bring in their own team. Prior to the merger I was
recognized as a top performer at the company.”
Provide Evidence
You could then say you’re happy to provide references from the former company to verify your
top performance. Demonstrating a confidence to provide references is a powerful way to ensure
you are believed.
Tell the Truth
Stay with the facts of what happened, what you did, how you felt and what you learned.
Interviewers want to beleive you were not the problem and understand how you handled
yourself.
What Did You Learn
This is an opportunity to describe what you learned and how you will handle things differently in
the future. Describing what you learned positively demonstrates that you are a life-long learner
and you look on the positive side of most scenarios.
Be Positive
State the facts in a positive manner. Any negativity you express will only reflect negatively on
you. If you’re angry about the situation, you’ll need to process that anger in another manner
before you interview. The interview is the last place to express anger about anything.
Make No Assumptions
Do not speculate on the motives or feeling of the other people involved in the events of your
departure. Focus only on the facts of what happened and what you did.
Eye Contact
Look the interviewer in the eyes when responding. This will convey your confidence,
communicate that this is the truth and that you have nothing to hide.
Conquer Your Fear
Write out your response and practice saying it. First, practice responding out loud to yourself,
and then practice saying it to another person. Ask a friend to practice interview you. Practice
until you are comfortable with the words you say and how you deliver them.