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Stuck at my job for 13 years: How do I answer interview questions about leaving?

Krishna

Krishna Kumar  |397 Answers  |Ask -

Workplace Expert - Answered on Jan 27, 2025

Krishna Kumar is the founder and CEO of GoMoTech, a company that provides strategic consulting in B2B sales, performance management and digital transformation.
Before branching out on his own, he worked with companies like Microsoft, Rediff, Flipkart and InMobi.
With over 25 years of experience under his belt, KK is a regular speaker at industry events and academic intuitions, both in India as well as abroad.
KK completed his MBA in marketing from the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning in Andhra Pradesh and his management development programme from XLRI, Jamshedpur.
He has also completed his LLB from Nagpur University and diploma in PR from Bhavan’s College of Management, Nagpur, where he was awarded a gold medal.... more
Mrutyunjaya Question by Mrutyunjaya on Jan 06, 2025Hindi
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I have been working with a company since 2011 & it is almost 13 years , hence getting challenges in Job interview . Could you support how can I response if interviewer ask why you want to left your job now when you associated with a company since more than 13 years

Ans: Dear Mr.Mrutunjaya

Congratulations on your long stint.

I would suggest instead of saying things that would be please the interviewer, state things that you believe in.

It could be any or all of the following.

1. Explore newer opportunities
2. Expand job role
3. Take up challenging assignments
4. Come out of the comfort zone
Career

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Ashwini

Ashwini Dasgupta  |103 Answers  |Ask -

Personality Development Expert, Career Coach - Answered on Feb 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2023Hindi
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Hello mam, I am a 52 year old qualified woman, i left my well paid illustrious job after doing it for 13 years in 2008 to run my own business but due to some unforeseen and unfortunate personal and professional circumstances, I couldn't be successful in business due to lack of funding and no partners with me and remained a trader only in last 15 years. Although as a sole proprietor of the business, I handled all aspects of business my self like sales, marketing, finance, new clients generation etc, Got lot of experience as a sole proprietor but couldn't generate much revenue. I am a single woman industry. Now if I leave my business and go for a job with my total 28 years of job and business experience, how would I explain to interviewer the reason of leaving my business? How will i explain my business income which is much lesser than the current job salary of a person with 28 years experience in my field of business? I tried to go back in job several times in the last 15 years but couldn't because of these 2 reasons so please help. Thanks
Ans: Hi Sir/ Madam,

This is an commendable experience. Kudos.

Here are the few aspects you may consider- When explaining your decision to leave your business and seeking a job, honesty and framing your experiences in a positive light are key.

Highlight your entrepreneurial journey- mention on the various roles you have performed- sales, marketing, finance etc. This will show your versatility and multiple other aspects of the business.

Be honest and tell the interviewer'

Focus on the learning and growth-highlight the new skills you have learnt during your entrepreneurial journey and link it to the jobs you have/ will be applying.

Express your desire to have stability

Be honest on your financial conditions and explain how these are important

Get active on networking and referrals

Tailor your resume as per the industry, jobs you are applying

Prepare for the interviews. Practice, practice and practice

Employers value candidates who are honest and transparent. They value the diverse experience you bring on the table. Be effectively communicating your experience you can position yourself as a valuable asset to any organization.

All the best



Thanks
Ashwini Dasgupta
Author of Confidence Decoded. Is it a skill or attitude?

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Nitin

Nitin Sathe  | Answer  |Ask -

HR, Recruitment Expert - Answered on Jul 06, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2023Hindi
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I am a 52 year old qualified woman, i left my well paid illustrious job after doing it for 15 years in 2009 to run my own business but due to some unforeseen and unfortunate personal and professional circumstances, I couldn't be successful in business due to lack of funding and no partners with me and remained a trader only in last 15 years. Although as a sole proprietor of the business, I handled all aspects of business my self like sales, marketing, finance, new clients generation etc, Got lot of experience as a sole proprietor but couldn't generate much revenue. I am a single woman industry. Now if I leave my business and go for a job with my total 28 years of job and business experience, how would I explain to interviewer the reason of leaving my business? How will i explain my business income which is much lesser than the current job salary of a person with 28 years experience in my field of business? I tried to go back in job several times in the last 15 years but couldn't because of these 2 reasons so please help. Thanks
Ans: Ma’am, The interviewer will surely ask you what makes you come back looking for a job. It is good to be forthright about why your business went the way it did. And you are sure to have had huge learning experiences from the failure as well; these learning’s could be applied to the new job for the value addition that the employer would expect from you. I do not think a question about why you have a low business will be asked if you have replied to his query regarding the same truthfully. If you see a bleak future in your business, it is better to go back to the illustrious career that you once followed, but as a caution, I would advise you to expect a lower salary since you have had a break and need to prove yourself at the job once again.
Wishing you the best!

..Read more

Career

Career Coach  |49 Answers  |Ask -

Workplace Expert - Answered on Jan 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 19, 2024Hindi
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Tell us why you wish to leave your current job. This is a very common question asked by employers in a job interview. What is the correct way to answer this question?
Ans: When responding to the question about why you want to leave your current job in a job interview, it's crucial to convey a positive message and avoid speaking negatively about your current or previous employers. Here's a paraphrased version of the tips:

1. Highlight career advancement: Stress your interest in professional growth and how the new position complements your long-term career objectives, showcasing a forward-thinking attitude.

- Example: "While I've gained valuable experience in my current role, I see this new opportunity as a chance for continued growth and development in alignment with my career goals."

2. Emphasize positive aspects of the new job: Showcase what attracts you to the new role, such as the company's values, mission, or specific job responsibilities. Frame your response around a positive change rather than escaping something negative.

- Example: "I'm enthusiastic about joining a company that prioritizes innovation. I believe my skills are well-suited to the challenges presented by this new role."

3. Refer to personal circumstances: If applicable, mention changes in your personal life (e.g., relocation, family situations) that prompt your job search, emphasizing that it's unrelated to dissatisfaction with your current job.

- Example: "Due to recent changes in my family situation, I'm seeking a position that offers a better balance between my professional and personal commitments. I believe this new opportunity provides that balance."

4. Steer clear of negativity: Avoid criticizing current or past employers, colleagues, or company culture. Keep your comments positive to present yourself in a favorable light.

- Example: Instead of expressing dissatisfaction with management, say something like, "I'm looking for a work environment that aligns more with my collaborative and team-oriented approach."

The key is to convey your enthusiasm for the new opportunity and how it aligns with your career goals, without dwelling on any negative aspects of your current or past roles.

..Read more

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