Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?

A mnemonic tool is a simple technique for remembering almost anything. The best about mnemonics is that they are easy-to-remember and may be flashing quickly in the brain once the information is needed.

Use the "HONEST" mnemonic to remember how to answer the most common interview question. In any common interview, certainly, you will be asked this question "Why did you leave your last job?" Whether you were fired from your last job or you left it on your own accord, use this simple mnemonic to answer this popular interview question professionally.

HONEST mnemonic stands for:

HonestyNo for Blaming OthersEconomical in answeringStraight forward

Answer This Interview Question with Honesty

When addressing any interview question, be honest. Nevertheless, you should also try to outline the honest answer with a positive frame.

For example, if you left your last job because you were underpaid or under-appreciated. Do not mention that your boss was overbearing and under appreciative corporation. It is a good idea to tell that your last work didn't give you the chance to grow professionally and there is no chance for advancement opportunity.

No For Blaming Others

Do not blame your previous organization or boss. Do not show your anger due to the resignation.

For example:

Question: "Why did you leave your last position / job?"

Answer: "I want to apply for a more challenging position." Or "I want to have a chance to work in a larger and more robust organization."

Economical Answers are Safe

Answer any common interview question economically.

Bad example:

Question: "Why did you leave your last position / job?"

Answer: "They didn't meet their promises and my salary was insufficient. My manager was not up to it and every time failed to deliver."

It may be acceptable to say that he/she wanted a chance to improve his/her salary. Unfortunately, he/she decided to tell additional information concerning the relationship with the previous boss which is irrelevant to the question asked and only guarantees to lessen the chances of passing the interview.

Good example:

Question: "Why did you leave your last position / job?"

Answer: "I had an opportunity to apply for more advanced role in a company with a larger portfolio."

This behavior is honest, positive and economical. The interviewee addressed in a brief that he is confident and valued; someone who enjoys with a challenging spirit.

Be Straightforward in Answering any Professional Interview Question

If you left your last job under bad circumstances, be direct and focus your interview answer on the future.

Naturally, no one likes the interview process but let's face it, as you only get one chance to get the job, right? Firstly, you have to be on your best mood. Secondly, be prepared well to answer the most common interview questions, especially "Why did you leave your last job"? Simply, remember the mnemonic "HONEST" to remember how to answer this question professionally and to avoid the dead end of the interview. Answering interview questions is a skill. Acquire it, and memorize it.

Here is a blog that is exclusively dedicated for mnemonics and acronyms to give valuable tips on soft skills, behavioral skills and interpersonal skills.

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