Why Did You Leave Your Last Job? How to Answer Honestly and Positively

Almost every UK interview includes a question about why you left, or are leaving, your last role. Stay calm, brief and positive.

Good reasons to give

• Looking for a new challenge or more responsibility.

• Career progression that was not available.

• Redundancy or restructuring. This is common and not a reflection on you.

• Moving for personal reasons or a better work-life balance.

If you were dismissed

Be truthful, take responsibility, explain what you learned and move on to what you can offer now. Never blame your former manager.

Explaining CV gaps

Give a short, honest reason, such as caring responsibilities, study, travel or health, and then describe anything useful you did during that time, such as courses or volunteering.

Golden rule

Say something positive about your previous employer, then pivot to why this job is the right next step.

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