Tip No. 187
Q. What do I say to a potential employer when they ask why I am looking for new employment?
A. This is an excellent question that you can bet most employers will ask-or at least think about asking. First, let’s consider why you are being asked this. Hiring managers are both trying to find out how you speak of previous employers and to gauge the depth of your flexibility. Can you quickly acclimate to a new company and speak highly of your previous employer despite the circumstances? This skill speaks volumes about your maturity, level of professionalism and ability to transition; all things you will most likely be called to use in your next position. Show your best side when you keep it short and sweet-literally. Discuss how the company is down sizing, a current trend in the industry, and your position was one of those to be eliminated. Then move the conversation toward the fact that this down size created a world of opportunities for you to explore many new possibilities.
CMI Career Management International
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