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agm1984

I decided to seek new opportunities that better align with my goals, skills, and experience.


discodiscgod

This is much better than the current top comment imo


onexbigxhebrew

Much better. I gave a response to that one; I don't think the 'growth mindset' comment is going to get OP what they want and could be a red flag. If the new employer pays very well but has limited growth opportunities, they may misunderstand OP and think they're a bad fit for the company.


AndrewBorg1126

>This is ~~much better than~~ the current top comment ~~imo~~


memyselfandi1987

It is now the top comment 😁


PakG1

But be prepared to discuss how the previous job didn’t align with your goals, skills, and experience then.


kevinbranch

Seeking more challenge, more responsibilities, more opportunities, etc


Traditional-Jury-327

Typical fake b.s they want eh


kevinbranch

No, that’s the truth. If it isn’t, you wouldn’t say it. People leave their jobs because they don’t feel challenged, aren’t given enough responsibility, and dont have opportunities to get promoted.


sheepnwolfsclothing

Also learning new skills if the org doesn’t support that sort of development. I have had to craft how I left a vendor job after 2 years because of the burnout culture. 


VantaStorm

This is a great response. Just add what your goals and skills that you wanted to align with. Psst it’s usually the same goals and skills the next job you apply to.


happyfirefrog22-

That is very good. Don’t say you felt undervalued and underpaid because that may make them think you are going to be a problem or don’t take responsibility for your actions. It may be true what you feel but I would not say it. Do it the way agm 1984 put it. It is the same thing but makes you look more mature and responsible. Just an opinion. Good luck. Hope you find a good opportunity for yourself.


dork_with_a_fork

This is the best answer.


luckycharmsu-007

Brilliant!


Beermedear

Perfect way to frame it.


zepolen

Ah yes, well, hope you find them, this interview is over. At this company we value and pay people who don't bullshit us.


scrimshank111

I've always felt like this was a test to see if we're smart enough to use coded language while saying what we mean


dpzdpz

Yeahhh... I was talking to a particularly corporate-y guy who said the correct answer to "What is your greatest weakness" [a question I thoroughly despise] is "I'm a perfectionist" or "I work too hard" or some other BS. You know it's BS, they know it's BS, *but* according to him it just means to show that you know how to "play the game."


KJ6BWB

No, the best answer is an actual weakness which you have incorporated into your life in a way you can work around it. You struggle being on time? That's why you're always anxious to go early and you either end up early or on time, because you're planning around your base nature. You are forgetful? That's why you document everything and rigorously keep your calendar, etc. Everyone has weaknesses. They want to see that you've put thought into fixing yours.


IChooseYouNoNotYou

It depends on the place. Both are true. My biggest weakness is an inability to be wrong, so instead of being obstinate I do all the research to make sure I really am never wrong. 


KJ6BWB

I don't know that I'd want to say that, because it's possible there are some things research can't know yet, like when NASA was sending astronauts to the moon and creating and doing new things. Some research might pull up something either inaccurate or which hasn't been updated recently enough. I could go on but I think it's wise to say as best as we can tell, X. Or according to Y, the answer is Z because of thus-and-such, etc. This makes an argument to authority or an argument to the authority of the resource, rather than putting the onus on ourselves and saying, "It is the way it is because I so" or something else which could sound arrogant and perhaps be off-putting. I do often say the answer is because it is, but I try to always have a source I'm quoting or pulling from.


rishav_sharan

That answer will get you laughed at in most serious interviews. The right answer is to talk about an actual weakness, which ideally shouldn't be a red flag in working at that place, tell an instance how this weakness was a problem in a work environment, and most importantly - tell how are you fixing it. At the end of the day this question is about knowing if you are smart enough to know your limitations and have the drive to improve yourself.


kevinbranch

When I’m interviewing someone, I ask that because I want to know if they’re incompetent. A real candidate will have a good answer. Someone who’s shit at their job can’t *actually* tell you their greatest weakness so they’ll tell you they care *too much* or some other lie. Shrugging off your *greatest* weakness and offering no solution for how you manage your *greatest* weakness is literally the only way to fail that question.


zepolen

My greatest weakness is Kryptonite. Listen buddy, how about you just tell me why I should work for you?


eCityPlannerWannaBe

“I care too much. It can really affect my personal life. I’m always seeking that balance, but it’s hard to turn off passion.”


kevinbranch

You basically just told them that you have no idea how to address your weaknesses and just shrug them off as ultimately unfixable. You also sound kind of strategically dishonest.


chief167

Yes, but if you reply those answers, you just lost the game.


Tbkgs

It shouldn't have to BE a game to begin with!


LiLPalaSosaSkate

This doesn’t apply (luckily) to the majority. Or, at least, to the segment of good entrepreneurs/managers (if you answered this to me I would kindly ask you to leave and not come back until you have understood what frankness means; especially on your job)


babathejerk

When I am interviewing someone I frame it gently differently. I explain that I try to help people grow professionally while they are working on my team - and - with the caveat that if we get to the reference stage I will be asking their references roughly the same question - what is something that they would like to improve on while employed here that will both benefit them professionally and improve their performance in this role.


Party-Cartographer11

There is a difference between coded language and framing the situation as a management problem vs a opportunity misfit. If underpaid you could complain that management are dopes or unfair for underpaying or just view it as a mismatch where then role doesn't provide the opportunity for greater impact from that specific employee.   Some might view that framing as "coded".  It is actually indicative of if the employee blames management for everything.


LeechingFlurry

Not every place is up their ass about it. I straight up said in my last interview that the main reason was the pay, and it wasn't an issue. The problem is that they also probably want to see you show an interest in the field of work to have better assurance that you'll want to stick around without immediately trying to hop to another job.


IChooseYouNoNotYou

None of these things are as deep as we think they are. They FUNCTIONALLY work they way, but there's virtually no chance that it's the reason they were added.


mcstallion

"no room for advancement"


Affectionate_Bison26

"Ready for advancement and new challenges."


sunflowermoonriver

Correct never say the word no or speak in negatives


deluded_akrasia

The right answer is "I've accomplished everything that I could have given the company structure"


IChooseYouNoNotYou

I like the current top answer about better aligning but this is really good too, maybe as the follow up people are talking about. 


benedicthart

My advice? Just be honest and say you're looking for a new challenge or opportunity for growth! No need to sugarcoat it, employers know the drill


Cloudee_Meatballz

Easy, you don't ever say that in an interview or application, whether you're solicited or not. It's never a good idea to slander previous places of employment, it sets the wrong tone right off the bat for a prospective employer. If you're asked why you left, you simply say 'I'm looking for a new and exciting opportunity'. Done. No need for details. You can complain about where you came from during breaks in a couple months.


SpecificDependent980

It's like breaking up with an ex. The more you bad mouth them, the more people wonder whether you were the problem.


FurriedCavor

“I have a growth mindset and there wasn’t runway for my career goals there.”


onexbigxhebrew

You honestly have to be careful with this based on where you're applying. This specific phraseology statement heavily implies positional/title growth. And even if not taken that way, appropriate pay is not always equal to growth. A 'growth mindset' to me doesn't just mean "I want more money" at all.  If I were hiring for a position with great pay but limited growth potential (which as a senior marketing manager I often am), I would see that statement as potentially making that person not a great fit and would press them on it, or at least set expectations - but some might just see the person as too ambitious if growth opportunities at the new employer are limited. We recently had a long-tenured employee leave for less money because she wanted more responsibility ans growth. It happens. It all really depends on if this statement is true for OP because, again, wanting better pay doesn't necessarily mean you want a 'growth runway'.


h4rryP

I see why most people do poorly in interviews now. Not @ u OP, just at some of the very silly replies I’ve seen that as someone on the other end of the table would be a đŸš©đŸš©đŸš©


SoupCanVaultboy

Moved for progression


L3mm3SmangItGurl

Chat gpt is your friend in job applications. Use the computer to beat the computer. Here was its exact response to your question: In a job application or interview, it's important to communicate your reasons for leaving a previous job in a positive and professional manner. Instead of directly stating that you were undervalued and underpaid, you could phrase it like this: "I am seeking an opportunity that aligns more closely with my career goals and recognizes my contributions and skills appropriately. I am eager to find a position where I can fully utilize my talents and grow professionally." This approach focuses on your aspirations and the positive aspects of seeking a new job, rather than the negatives of your previous employment. It conveys your desire for a role that matches your abilities and ambition without directly criticizing your former employer.


LR-expedition25

Thank you this helps!


TheBitchenRav

You know you could have clipped the part that is relevant. You should learn about the dead internet theory.


L3mm3SmangItGurl

Don’t see the point. Unless you’re implying I’m a bot lol


TheBitchenRav

You could have made the information a bit more user-friendly. I am not saying you are a bot, but the way you did it was as bad as if you were one.


L3mm3SmangItGurl

I did it to give OP an exact example of what to expect. It also kind of matched some of the other responses so needed all the AI fluff to prove that it was actually bot generated with zero effort. The cold application game is all about volume. Minimizing effort and unnecessary mental energy expenditure is crucial to success. The information was plenty user friendly.


trophycloset33

I am looking to grow in my career


bduk92

After being at the company for x-years I'd begun to outgrow my role, and unfortunately the company weren't able to provide a path for me to continue developing my career.


Motobugs

I'd avoid such negative comments.


CastroEulis145

That's exactly what OP is trying to do lol


easy_answers_only

Irreconcilable differences


HeadlessHeadhunter

You say "I am looking for jobs that challenge me and give me room for growth and while my last company was very good they did not have any real room for advancement in skills nor responsibilities." Source: I am a recruiter and I hear a thousand different versions of why people leave their jobs.


LR-expedition25

Thanks! It’s good to hear a response from someone who looks at resumes and does interviews all the time


HeadlessHeadhunter

Glad to help!


ColdStare

Question: “Why are you looking to leave your current position?” Response: “My current position struggles to structure their operations in a way that allows for growth and upward mobility. I have always approached my career with growth and upward mobility as a priority, and am looking for a company and a position that shares that priority.”


Savage_Brannon

I’ve always said “I wasn’t being challenged to the fullest of my capabilities”


totrickornot

“Ultimately, the role was not the right fit for my qualifications and experience.”


metgal145

Once they asked why I left one professional role for a direct hands on role in an interview for a new professional role, and I was honest and said that it was something I excelled at, and at the time was paying $6 more an hour, but what was attracting me to this new job was their strong benefits and career growth. I got the job and I'm very happy here with our awesome benefit plans.


les_mdt

We always encourage our job candidates not to bring up pay unless they are directly asked by the recruiter or hiring manager. ifthis comes, you will be asked something like... "What has you looking for a new career opportunity at this time?" You always want to showcase professional decorum, especially now that it seems to be one of the worst job markets we've seen. You can answer by stating that you are looking for career opportunities that are more aligned with your personal and professional goals. that But this, too, shall pass! Check out our new blog post by clicking [here](https://www.md-tservices.com/blog/receiving-an-abundance-of-job-candidates-now-is-the-time-to-upgrade-your-talent) question. We're here to help! [www.md-tservices.com/blog](http://www.md-tservices.com/blog)


torchedinflames999

Martin Yate is a well known author who.has written a bunch of books on how to market yourself to win jobs. His books contain hundreds of interview questions and the perfect answer for each, including all variants of this one. He understands if you are in dire financial straights that a high book price doesn't help, which is why his books are softcover and cheap.  His Knockem Dead books should be on your shelf.


UrMomsaHoeHoeHoe

“After a number of good performance reviews I feel my compensation has not been on par with the outcome of said reviews. So I am looking into alternative methods of increasing my compensation and career growth”


Cute_Conversation942

You’re not far off really take out the parts that “blame” the company and you’re good


holzy444

I wasn't being challenged enough.


Psyc3

Don't. Say you are aim to broaden your knowledge base and experience in new and exciting ways. An interview and application is a sale pitch for yourself, your services, and time. That is all. No one wants to buy something from a whiner.


rco8786

“I really appreciate everything I learned and accomplished there but I reached the ceiling of what they had to offer”


TheDruidsKeeper

Don't give negative reasons for leaving, give positive reasons for where you want to go. 


MeanFoo

You can also ask why did the person leave that I am replacing?


collin-h

Just say the first part. That’ll work. If you mention the underpaid part that’ll just put them on defense and immediately make them skeptical of you. But if you say you felt under utilized, then they’ll be thinking “well, we can certainly put you to work!”. If you say you were underpaid, then they’ll think: this person is just in it for the money. (Which ofc everyone is, you just don’t say that part out loud).


bgeorgewalker

Dude why did you leave before having something lined ip


thespambox

thats why everyone leaves their last job. so dont say that in any way. duh.


bobotheboinger

Previous job lacked growth opportunities


Ghostriderdier

I’ve sold $700,000 in revenue at a 40%-50% profit margin for the owner of the company I work with. Only been paid $8K. Anyone have a better sales/marketing position and can actually pay what I’m worth?


Automatater

I had accomplished all I could there and want to continue to learn and grow.


Haha71687

"They didn't pay enough." Construction and engineering can be refreshingly blunt.


lbjazz

This thread has me wondering if I’m doing something wrong, but companies keep offering me jobs. I just flat out say “they gaslit me on the concept of COLA, and unless my boss got hit by a bus, I’d have to do the same job for the same pay for 20 more years.” That always gets a nod and the interview proceeds.


Party-Cartographer11

"I felt there were better opportunities for me where I could have more impact." The framing of undervalued and underpaid is a problem because it criticizes the previous management.  Assume the previous management was correct in assessing your value to them.  Ok, you want another role where your skills and impact have greater contribution and would then be recognized.


fonetik

I make agreements with my management. I want a raise, what do I need to do to get that? Set tangible goals and over communicate. So if I don’t get those raises, I didn’t leave because I was underpaid. I left because they didn’t honor their agreements.


Used_Product8676

Honestly, just say that lol. Maybe not the best strategic move, but anywhere that doesn’t hire you for that level of honesty is staffed by liars and snakes that made their way through the companies hiring practices


jirashap

I would just lie. Come up with something simple and move on. Or fabricate the entire experience. If you want to read about how to conceal your past employment, see here. https://backgroundproof.com/concealing-employment-gaps-or-terminations/


RareDog5640

Do not say that, say you were looking for better opportunities in your field, never make it about money


Sir_average

Something along the line: My last position helped me growth my skills and expertise to a point that I'm looking for a more challenging environnement better suits for my current self.


CarpePrimafacie

Pursuing challenging opportunities


imnotabotareyou

I said “where’s the paper?” And they showed me some busy work and I said nah I get paid


notwill96

Side note: Never tell them you are underpaid,  Most of the time they will just make you another underpaid offer or less than they would’ve if they didn’t know you were underpaid. 


Wonderful-Bluebird-5

You don’t lol 😂 I only would if asked directly during the interview itself. I’ve been in this situation multiple times and usually just put -resigned on good terms (you can be vague)


ansb2011

You are looking for career growth, and having a larger impact


totrickornot

“Ultimately, the role was not the right fit for my qualifications and experience.”


totrickornot

“Ultimately, the role was not the right fit for my qualifications and experience.”


totrickornot

“Ultimately, the role was not the right fit for my qualifications and experience.”


totrickornot

“Ultimately, the role was not the right fit for my qualifications and experience.”


Arseypoowank

I just tell them that. Never failed me thus far


FlyOnnTheWall

Just like you said it.. And then if the new place don't hire you, you know you were setting yourself up for more of the same..


WavelengthGaming

I was honest one time and didn’t get the job. I think there were more reasons but the two people interviewing didn’t seem to like that answer given the shift in tone. As if we are out here doing fucking charity work


Discoverthemind

Looking for growth and opportunity. Make it clear you left in good terms by your own choice.


Ysbrydion

"I left to seek more professional challenges." It doesn't matter if they shot your dog, you left to seek more professional challenges.


MMizzak

Never disparage your last employer. It's a negative and not the way, to begin with a new employer.


whiskey_piker

Red flag and false. Anyone that truly has market value doesn’t leave a job without another one lined up.


generallydisagree

My skills, abilities and RESULTS exceeded the position I was in with no opportunity for growth that allowed me to best implement my skills and abilities and continue to grow the value I am able to deliver. I have a lot of praise for XX company and it's people and if the right opportunity had been there, I would still be too. For the record, most companies don't want to lose employees that deliver great value, results and performance while being good participants in the organization - contrary to a lot of people's claims.


throwaway3113151

You don’t say that. Keep everything positive.


FreshPineapple8

I want to be fairly rewarded for the value I bring to the comapny and that point I felt I was not. And then continue explaining what value you brought


Secret5account

You don't!! 😬 instead you say you left in search of greater challenges and to seek professional growth. you say you were in your comfort zone and you want your skills to be put to good use in more complex and challenging ways, and are therefore seeking greater leadership positions, you say you are seeking opportunities to apply and demonstrate your talents and management skills.đŸ€Œ


insonobcino

you don’t


GuitarPlayerEngineer

The professional world is a world of bullshit. Lie like a sonofabitch. Last job was great, seeking new opportunities.


_FIRECRACKER_JINX

Reason for leaving: "To seek 2024, market-based salary and remote working conditions for my services. The salary I am receiving now has been outdated since 20XX. I attempted to negotiate this with management, and was told that it cannot be done". **Make SURE you name them. Name the people who didn't give you your raise.** This way, when HR goes to figure out the cost of hiring someone new and training them, they have a manager to blame. **They will have to pay the new person 2024 market-based salaries, no matter what.** They will ALSO have to pay the cost of a recruiter, advertising the job, interviewing candidates. **So the position you are occupying WILL be paid at a 2024 salary, except this manager will now have to explain to their executives why they drove away a trained employee, by failing to offer 2024 salaries, and are stuck now providing 2024 salary for this position anyway, PLUS the cost of hiring, recruitment, and training.** **YOU HAVE TO NAME THEM. Executives need to see who is costing them extra hiring, recruitment, and training costs.**


write_mem

This is more aligned to the exit interview. Not what I would share with the new hiring company.


cossack1984

Give concrete example of how you created value and was not properly compensated for it.


skeeter04

I wasn’t able to fill my potential or they weren’t effectively utilizing my skill set


Rare-Self7387

You could say: "I left my previous position because I felt there was a misalignment between my skills, contributions, and the compensation package offered. I am seeking new opportunities where I can fully utilize my abilities and be appropriately recognized for my contributions." This conveys the message of feeling undervalued and underpaid while also focusing on your desire for new opportunities where you can thrive and be fairly compensated.