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

Krishna

Krishna Kumar  |427 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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Career

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  | Answer  |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?

..Read more

R P

R P Yadav  | Answer  |Ask -

HR, Workspace Expert - Answered on Jul 05, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2023Hindi
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Career
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: Hi,
I appreciate that you have worked for 15 years in a job.
In spite of having a successful professional career, you bravely ventured into business.
It is only 2 out of 10 that are successful in business starting from a startup. So, you are not alone in this sort of situation.
You need to be very frank and honest to the interviewer highlighting the positive points of your career. I am sure that there would be some companies who would be attracted by it and you will eventually get a good job.

..Read more

Nitin

Nitin Sathe  | Answer  |Ask -

HR, Recruitment Expert - Answered on Jul 06, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2023Hindi
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Career
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  | Answer  |Ask -

Workplace Expert - Answered on Jan 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 19, 2024Hindi
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Career
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

Latest Questions
Krishna

Krishna Kumar  |427 Answers  |Ask -

Workplace Expert - Answered on Oct 06, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 06, 2026
Career
What should an employee do if the person they are supposed to report harassment or discrimination to is actually the same person involved in the problem? For example, suppose a senior manager regularly makes inappropriate comments about an employee’s appearance or background, and the employee wants to complain, but the company’s usual process says that concerns should first be reported to that manager. In such a situation, the employee may feel stuck because going directly to the same person doesn’t feel safe or comfortable. What alternative channels should an employee look for, such as HR, a higher-level manager, an internal complaints committee or an ethics helpline? Also, how can someone raise the concern professionally while protecting themselves from possible retaliation or further workplace problems?
Ans: Dear

I am sorry to hear that you are going through a tough time. Nonetheless there is a way to handle this.

If you have ethics helpline use that, these are supposed to be anonymous and managed by third party who are independent company.

You can also approach the complaints committee but before escalating to the committee please talk to your managers manager along with the HR and take them in confidence.

Maintain your calm, structure your conversation on issues and backed with evidence (what was said when) and most important of all avoid personal attacks or name calling.

Hope this helps. All the best.

Warm Regards
KK

Ps: if you like the answer please follow me. Thanks.

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Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |747 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Oct 06, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 01, 2026
Relationship
My wife's sister's husband has become very friendly with me over the last few years. We meet often at family functions and sometimes talk separately about our personal lives. In the beginning, I was comfortable sharing things with him because I thought we had a good understanding. But slowly, I feel he has started asking too many questions about my marriage and my relationship with my wife. He sometimes asks about our arguments, our private matters and how we handle things at home. At the same time, he also shares many personal details about his own marriage with me, including problems and things that I feel are too private. Sometimes I don’t know how to respond, because I don’t want to encourage him to discuss such personal matters, but I also don’t want him to feel that I am avoiding him or judging him. Because we are family, I am worried that if I suddenly create distance or tell him directly to stop asking personal questions, it could create awkwardness between both families. I also don’t want my wife to feel that I am hiding something from her or that there is some problem between us.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand your concerns. You don't have to directly confront him about sharing too many personal details or asking you questions, nor do you need to create distance. The sweet spot is to build a gentle boundary. For instance, when he asks you something personal, instead of avoiding the question, just answer vaguely, like, "yes, things are going good" or "Nothing major. You know, routine married life stuff." This way, he will soon lose interest. And when he shares personal information with you, you can simply listen without offering any advice or asking follow-up questions. The conversation will die down on its own. This way, he will neither feel like you are avoiding a conversation with him nor believe that you are encouraging him to get up close and personal with you.

Most importantly, do not hide this friendship from your wife. It's okay. Friends do share things with each other at times and sometimes one person might feel burdened with too many information after a while. These are natural courses of a friendship. The important thing is that you are being considerate of your marriage and want to create a boundary. You can do that without being misunderstood or losing a friend.

Hope this helps.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11481 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 06, 2026

Money
Dear Sir/ Mam, My son is 28 years old. Should I buy a Term Insurance Policy for him? If so, suggest me name of Good policy and the suitable amount to be invested . rgds,
Ans: At age 28, taking term insurance can be considered, especially if your son has started earning and has financial responsibilities.

However, the policy should ideally be taken by your son himself. The need depends on his income, liabilities and dependants.

– If he has a home loan or other liabilities, adequate cover becomes more important.

– If parents, spouse or children depend on his income, insurance becomes even more relevant.

– If he is unmarried and has no financial dependants, the immediate need may be lower, but taking cover at a younger age can still be cost-effective.

» How much cover?

Do not decide the cover only based on his age.

Consider:

– Current annual income.

– Existing loans and liabilities.

– Financial support required by dependants.

– Future family responsibilities.

– Existing life insurance, if any.

A broad starting point can be around 10–15 times annual income, but the final cover should be based on his actual financial situation.

» Who should pay the premium?

Ideally, your son should own the policy and pay the premium.

This keeps the policy connected with his income and financial responsibilities.

You can certainly help him with the premium if required.

» Which policy?

I would not suggest a particular insurance company or policy without knowing his income, liabilities, health, smoking status and existing insurance.

Instead, compare established insurers on:

– Claim settlement record.

– Solvency and financial strength.

– Policy exclusions and conditions.

– Premium for the required tenure.

– Claim servicing quality.

Avoid buying an insurance policy merely because somebody promises investment returns or other benefits along with the insurance.

For a pure protection requirement, a simple term insurance policy is generally easier to understand.

» Final Insights

At 28, your son has a good opportunity to put proper protection in place before his financial responsibilities increase.

The important point is to decide the required cover first and then compare suitable policies.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
AMFI-Registered MFD – ARN 4188
www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramalingamcfp/

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |12579 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Oct 06, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 25, 2026
Career
Hi experts I am raising the query on behalf of my son:- My son is doing his Final BCom(F&A)with Christ Bangalore- Also completed CA-Inter and undergoing internship at Bangalore. My query is:- a.With B.Com-CA-Inter- what is the job scope in India? b.Any chance to get Overseas placements- If yes- which country is preferable and how to proceed for job search. c.Any further courses needs to be completed along with B.Com-CA-? Submitted for your kind perusal and advice please. Thanks Srikanth
Ans: With B.Com + CA-Inter, there are good opportunities in India in audit, taxation, financial reporting, FP&A, internal audit and finance/shared-services roles. For overseas opportunities, it is better to focus on completing CA first. UAE can be a good starting option, while Singapore offers opportunities with MNCs; the UK, Canada and Australia can also be explored based on qualification and work-visa requirements. The ideal strategy would be to complete CA, gain 2–3 years of relevant experience with a Big 4 firm or reputed company, and then explore overseas opportunities through ICAI, LinkedIn, company career pages and internal transfers within MNCs. After CA, he can consider ACCA for international accounting, CFA for investment/finance roles, US CPA for US-focused accounting/MNCs, or shorter courses in IFRS, Advanced Excel, Power BI and SAP, depending on his career goals. If CA Final gets delayed, he can take up a suitable private-sector role in audit, taxation or financial analysis while continuing CA. ACCA, CMA or CS can also be considered after checking exemptions. If he prefers government employment, exams such as SSC CGL/AAO and RBI Grade B can be explored. Maintaining an active LinkedIn profile and setting relevant job alerts will also help him understand current hiring trends, skill requirements and opportunities and make informed short- and long-term career decisions. All The Best for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.
Asked on - Oct 06, 2026 | Answered on Oct 06, 2026
Thank you very much sir for your valuable guidance.
Ans: Welcome Sir.

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