Reason For Leaving On Job Application

Reason for leaving on job applications forms an essential part of the application process. It presents an opportunity for the applicant to explain the undesirable circumstances that made him move from one company to another to allow the interviewer an insight into his work pattern. While it seems like a straightforward question, and you should simply provide the “real” reason you left your previous job, some schools of thought say you should leave out certain information.

Good Reasons for Leaving a Job on Application

The reason for leaving on job applications can be tricky. You want to give a reason that is professional but also truthful. Here are some of the most common reasons why people leave their jobs:

1. A better deal from another company

If you’ve been offered a better salary somewhere else or more flexible hours at another company, it’s perfectly reasonable to start looking for work elsewhere. You can always tell your current employer about this change of plans if they ask. It’s up to them whether they want to match the new offer, but either way, refrain from having any secrets from them if they find out, especially if there’s a good chance they will.

2. Moved on to a position with more responsibilities

If your new role has more responsibilities and challenges than your old one, it’s likely worth taking the risk of leaving your current job. You can even negotiate a raise or promotion at your current employer if you’re willing to stay long enough for them to find someone new for your old position.

3. Job responsibilities were different

If you were told during an interview that you’d be working on a specific project and then found out upon actually starting work that you were working on something completely different, it could make sense to leave if that wasn’t what you were looking for in the first place.

4. Caring for an ill family member

If there was an emergency at home, such as caring for elderly parents or children, and you had no choice but to leave your job, then explain it in detail on your application so that the interviewer will understand why this happened.

5. Career focus changed

Some people leave jobs because they’ve changed their career focus and need to find a new position that fits their goals. If you’ve been working toward a certain certification or degree for the last few years. It might be time to move on if you still need to achieve your goal.

6. Looking for a new challenge

This is an excellent answer for someone who wants to move on from their current position but isn’t necessarily unhappy. This answer communicates that you want to continue growing, learning, and improving yourself – but not necessarily at the expense of your current job. A great way to reinforce this answer is by mentioning where you see yourself in five years and what you would like to do to get there.

7. Position eliminated

If your position was eliminated, it’s essential to communicate that you were not laid off or fired in any way. If this is true, then be honest about it! The hiring manager has insight as to whether they are cutting costs, and this can be an opportunity to ask questions about how they handle workplace cuts or if they plan on doing more in the future.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt about it—leaving a job is rarely easy. While you may have had good reasons for leaving, such as increasing instability or management issues, you’re likely doing so with several negative feelings. A reason for leaving can tell a lot about your character and what you’re willing to accept in your career path.

For example, if you quit a job without giving notice, it shows how reliable you are, while a poor relationship with the boss or co-workers displays an inability to socialize in the workplace. Regarding job applications, we urge you to be honest and straightforward. Your reason for leaving is something that employers will want to know, and skirting the issue won’t do you any favors in your job search!