When interviewers ask, “Why do you want to leave your current job?”, they’re not just making conversation. They want to assess:
- Your professionalism – Do you speak negatively about your employer?
- Your career motivation – Are you leaving for the right reasons?
- Your fit for the role – Does this job align with your career goals?
Many candidates struggle with this question because they’re unsure how to frame their answer without sounding negative or desperate.
Want to know the best structure to answer the accounting job interview question "Why do you want to leave your current role"?
Your response should follow the GROWTH – ALIGNMENT – OPPORTUNITY framework:
1. GROWTH: Explain what you’ve learned in your current role and why you’re ready for the next step.
2. ALIGNMENT: Show how the new role aligns with your skills and career aspirations.
3. OPPORTUNITY: Highlight what excites you about the new company and how you can contribute.
Here are sample responses for different situations:
If you’re looking for career growth:
"I’ve gained valuable experience in financial reporting and compliance at [Current Company]. However, I’m now looking for an opportunity where I can take on more strategic responsibilities, such as financial planning and analysis. This role at [New Company] is a perfect fit because it allows me to expand my expertise while contributing to a growing finance team."
If your company lacks advancement opportunities:
"I’ve enjoyed working at [Current Company] and have learned a lot, but there are limited opportunities for advancement. I’m eager to take on new challenges in a company like [New Company], where I can apply my skills in financial modeling and forecasting to drive business decisions."
If your company is undergoing changes (downsizing, restructuring, etc.):
"Recently, my company has been going through organizational changes that have impacted my role. While I’ve appreciated my time there, I’m looking for a stable environment where I can continue to grow and contribute effectively. I’m excited about this opportunity at [New Company] because it aligns with my expertise in financial analysis and process improvement."
Pro Tip:
Never badmouth your current employer. Instead, focus on positive reasons for leaving and how the new role aligns with your career goals.
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