Your "Reason for Leaving" Statement

If you are currently looking for a new job, it may be because you were job-eliminated or down-sized from your last position. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues may already be asking you, "What happened with your job?"

This is a question you will hear frequently as you launch your job search. It is important that you be prepared to handle this question capably - regardless of who asks. Therefore, one of the first things you’ll want to do is develop a response that is truthful and acceptable to you, and to your previous and prospective employers.

You probably will edit your Reason for Leaving Statement several times.

Although you will not distribute a written copy, writing down what you want to say will keep your explanation concise and help ensure that you have it firmly in your mind. When drafting your statement, please consider these points: 

• Keep it short and factual. Generally, the more you try to explain, the more difficult your explanation becomes.  Be prepared to answer follow-up questions, but only if they are asked.
• Be as positive as possible. Negative statements about your former boss or company will only hurt you.
• Put your best foot forward, but be truthful. There are a number of factors which result in someone leaving. Pick the reason that is most positive and easiest to explain.