Let’s face it. Barring a compelling need to move out of the area, no one decides to look for a new job if the job they have right now is perfect.
Maybe you don’t see a path to advancement, you can’t get the shift you want, you feel like your managers don’t value your contributions, the benefits are subpar, you believe you can get a higher salary somewhere else, or (worst case scenario) your current workplace is a toxic mess.
Whatever the reason, you are looking for a new job to fill a need that isn’t being filled by the job you have now.
So, what do you say if, in the middle of a job interview that you think is going pretty well, all of a sudden the hiring manager looks you square in the eye and asks:
But tell me, why are you really looking for a new job?
Keep it positive
Talk about a loaded question! But it is a question that all job seekers need to be prepared to answer, and the key to answering correctly is to put a positive spin on what you say.
While it may be tempting to unload on the hiring manager – sharing every grievance you have against your current employer – that is a big mistake. Most likely, some of the things you don’t like about the RT department you are at now are things shared by the RT department you are hoping to join.
Instead, focus on what you’ve learned in your current job and your goals and aspirations for the future. And you definitely want to circle back to the job description and mention those aspects of the job you are seeking that particularly appeal to you.
So, something like this might work –
My experience at General Hospital has been one of growth. I have learned to work under therapist-driven protocols and have participated in multidisciplinary rounds with physicians and nurses on the team. My managers have supported my continuing education efforts, but now I feel ready to move to the next phase in my career. Specifically, I see in your job description that you are looking for a therapist interested in patient education. I recently completed the AARC’s Pulmonary Disease Educator course, which is a new passion of mine. I would love to pursue that passion here at City Hospital.
Don’t be caught off guard
So don’t let the “why are you really . . .” question catch you off guard at your next job interview. Instead, have a short but meaningful statement ready to go, and make sure you leave your grievances at the door and focus instead on the positive aspects of the situation.
You can find more great job search tips on our Job Search Advice for Respiratory Therapists page.
