How should I answer this question on a job application?

Question

"Reason for seeking other employment opportunities." This question is asked in reference to my last job. I worked in construction and the reason I'm leaving is because the job is becoming to physically demanding (hurting my back, knees, etc.). However, I don't think it'll sound too good to say that I'm leaving because I couldn't handle my last job. I'm applying for a job in a different field. Any help in answering this question is great.

Answer 1

I would say, "Bored with that type of job, looking for new opportunities."

Answer 2

This is one case where the unvarnished truth should work just fine. Many people have to change jobs, and even career paths for health reasons.

If you feel you have to soft sell the facts, in writing, say you left for health reasons. If the question comes up in an interview, THEN tell the real, truthful reasons. Offer any details they ask for. Make sure you point out that your health is well, and you are ready to take on the challenges of the new job.

There may be a sticky place in the application. Most have a question asking if you have any physical disabilities that might prevent you from doing your job. If you really believe the new job will not e making the physical demands your old job did, you can honestly answer, "no."

Think hard about how you will answer that one. You do NOT want to lie on your application. A lie can come back to bite you later.

Answer 3

The best answer will simply focus on the fact that you are making a transition. If you are applying for a related job , when you get to the interview you can talk about your previous experience in a positive way, but also focus on how you want to grow and change in the industry. If the job you are applying for is in a different field, or not related to any aspect of the construction industry, then the answer should focus on a transition related to personal growth. For example, a change in fields may require training or education that will affect your personal growth in positive ways. This way you are able to use your own personal work experiences in a positive way, which is important. A lot of interview techniques can sometimes trick the applicant into giving negative answers. Stick to the truth, but always keep a positive twist on your answer.

Answer 4

If your prospective job is in a different field (I assume not physically demanding), there's no shame in saying you don't want to be hurt - pain is not something you just "handle".
Also, you can phrase it to sound more positive - like "looking for new challenges" or something like that... try to tailor your answer to being positive about this change in a new direction. You want the person reading your application to think "wow, this person is not only well suited to the job, she/he is really excited about the work".

Answer 5

Think about this: What in the new job you are seeking is "better" or different than your last job?

Then, make your statement about leaving your last job reflecting this difference. For example, your last job make not have allowed you to use your problem-solving abilities and creativity very much. So, you might say something like this: "I am looking forward to greater opportunity to utilize my problem-solving abilities and creativity in a broader manner - and to impact an organization's forward growth."

You haven't said anything negative about the last job -- and there's no need to say anything about wanting a less physical job.

Answer 6

You could word this in a way that will make it a plus for you if it ever comes up in an interview. For example...if you told them that you aren't scared of hard work, that you tried it and you did well, but that you are also aware of your limits and have decided to seek employment that can use other skills to a greater degree than the physical ones you used in this job.

I think as an employer, I'd like to know that a person is willing and capable of hard work, but is also knowledgeable enough to recognize when it is too much for them and is willing to seek alternatives to make sure he or she can work to their full potential.

Good luck.

Answer 7

I wouldn't say heavy lifting and health concern, they might think, "this guy might file for workman's comp as soon as he is in the door". Don't say bored either, that sounds "he will be here a couple of months and be bored here!"

I would say that you left your job because you wanted a different career path. That the job you are applying for is something that you have been wanting to do for sometime and now it is a opportunity waiting for you to take.

Answer 8

The truth is always the best and when they call your former employer he will probably tell them anyhow the job was too physically demanding and over time your bidy does break down so there is nothing to be ashamed or to hide about that .

Answer 9

Depends what you're applying for, if its another construction company I wouldn't say that. If its a desk job or a job that is less physically strenuous the truth is good there. If you cant use that say you are looking to expand your horizons and look for new and exciting oppurtunities, that kinda jazz they really like.

Answer 10

Actually, the words you said here are good and acceptable as long as the job you're applying for isn't a physically demanding job as well.

Answer 11

You could say:
1. Better job prospects
2. Health reasons
3. Just for the hell of it(Just playing). Well I hope the other 2 might help.