What is the best reason to give an interviewer for leaving an employer w/o sounding negative.?

Question

I left my past employer to concentrate on finding a job I truly felt I would like. My last job had so much turn-a-round in employees, heavier workload because of this and a lack of management dealing with the concerns of those that still worked for them. How does one explain this without coming across as being too negative. My response in the past was always "I left my previous employer in order to concentrate on finding a job where the employer recognizes an employee's excellent work ethic through advancement opportunities, this is something unfortunately, I was unable to accomplish with my previous employer."

Also, any answers to that proverbial question..."What is your greatest weakness?" Without responding with a campy or cliche type answer.

Thank-you.

Answer 1

The answer you stated is perfect:

"I left my previous employer in order to concentrate on finding a job where the employer recognizes an employee's excellent work ethic through advancement opportunities, this is something unfortunately, I was unable to accomplish with my previous employer."

Excellent response.

Weakness: "your inability to accept less than perfection"

Answer 2

You might try "Employee Politics" as the reason for leaving. Most companies will understand the meaning. Don't claim Employer Politics as that would be directed to the Company itself, instead emphasize the Employees. ( Even though it may be the Management) Offer to explain further if necessary. Many Employers understand that a lot of manipulation games and politics lower employee morale and cost their company money and talented employees.

Maybe try : " I left my previous place of employment in order to concentrate on finding a work environment where fellow employee's might recognize excellent work ethics, ability to be a team player while adhering to company Policies and Procedures."

Only you know what your greatest weakness is!

Answer 3

"I left my previous employer in order to concentrate on finding a job where the employer recognizes an employee's excellent work ethic through advancement opportunities, this is something unfortunately, I was unable to accomplish with my previous employer."
.........Nope anyone reading or hearing that is going to know it's a smoke screen.

Answer 4

I have an answer for the second question. Always make your weakness a strength. Such as - perfectionism. And then always indicate that your are working on improving it. As far as the first question - the truth is really the best answer. Anything close to a lie in this situation is likely to be discovered, or sound self serving. It isn't that critical a question and will be easily outweighed by the rest of your interview, provided all else is in order. Just be sure to be genuine, open and practice with someone who has hired and fired. Good luck to you.

Answer 5

I always used to say something like that as a response to why I want to leave, but I soon realised it came accross as a blame to some people. So now I just say it's a case of wanting to expand my career and it's the job that has drawn me because of my interest in this job, rather than my dislike or disinterest in the previous one.

As for the weaknesses, they always advise to mention 'disguised strengths.' Something like "I tend to want everything to be done perfectly and I really get frustrated if something is not done well" or I can be a workaholic sometimes.

Answer 6

Difference in opinion. Your decision making techniques where different and you believe they would be best utilised in the organization you are seeking employment better as opposed to your current organization.

My greatest weakness is my ability to making sure that deadlines are kept. This way I work overtime and even during weekend to make sure an assignment is completed on time

Answer 7

I am looking to be a bigger part of the company I work for. There is just no room for advancement there. I hate to leave they have been good to me but I need more.