How to answer "Why didn't you leave your previous job sooner?" in a job interview

Hooray! Finally, you've received an email with the details about your job interview!

But be prepared to answer tricky questions about your previous job position.

Follow these tips and sample answers to give interviewers the answer they're looking for.

One or two simple sentences are enough to answer the question. You can lose your train of thought in long and complicated phrases.

Unfortunately, I was laid off from my previous position. So, I'm currently looking for employment opportunities and this position appeals to me.

I was thinking to change the job because I understood that my previous position was a dead end. But I couldn't find anything suitable, and finally, I found your announcement.

Focus on the essential reason for leaving. It's unnecessary to go into all the details. Avoid inventing details, as it could backfire. The interviewer could check your answers with your references.

I didn't leave my previous job position sooner because I wanted to finish essential projects before considering a transition.

I was an irreplaceable employee and my manager didn't want me to leave the company. But in the end I firmly decided to leave it.

Even if you had conflicts and problems in your previous job position, avoid complaining about your past experiences, colleagues, or supervisors. If you can't, give a neutral answer based on the facts.

I felt that the new policies of the company didn't align with my career goals.

The atmosphere in the company was unfriendly and toxic. My previous boss was difficult to work with. I stayed until I couldn't take it anymore.

This is Daniella. She recently passed a professional exam to get a promotion and bought a car on credit. However, she didn't get this promotion. Also, she has a conflict with her supervisor. So, she has decided to find a new job.

How should she explain why she didn't leave her current job sooner?

I've been tolerating my toxic supervisor for four years. Finally, I've decided to change my job and find something more suitable.

Recently, I completed professional training, and I'm eager to apply new skills in my next role. I couldn't achieve this goal in my current job.

I wanted to save more money before leaving because I bought a car on credit. The job market seemed uncertain, and I didn't want to risk a pay cut.

Apply these tips to prepare for your interview: