Monday, October 13, 2025
Why Did You Leave Your Last Job? – Best Answers for Interviews in Ireland
This question can make even experienced candidates nervous — but it doesn’t have to. When Irish employers ask “Why did you leave your last job?”, they’re not trying to catch you out. They simply want to understand your motivation and ensure you’ll be a stable fit for their team.
Handled correctly, this question is actually an opportunity to show maturity, professionalism, and self-awareness.
Why Employers Ask This Question
Interviewers in Ireland use this question to learn:
- Whether you left voluntarily or not.
- What kind of work culture you thrive in.
- If you speak respectfully about previous employers.
- Whether your career goals align with their company.
Essentially, they’re testing your attitude more than your history.
How to Answer It Positively
Here’s how to frame your answer in a professional, forward-looking way:
- Be honest but tactful – Avoid negativity or unnecessary detail.
- Focus on growth – Emphasise what you wanted to achieve next, not what went wrong.
- Connect it to the new opportunity – Show how this job fits your next step.
Good Reasons to Leave a Job
It’s okay to mention:
- You wanted career growth or new challenges.
- You were looking for a role better suited to your skills.
- You wanted to develop professionally (e.g., training, new responsibilities).
- Your contract ended or it was a temporary role.
- The company restructured or changed direction.
Avoid phrasing it as “I didn’t like my boss” or “It was too stressful.” Keep it positive and professional.
Example Answers
Example 1
“I really enjoyed my previous role, but after two years I felt ready to take on new challenges. I’m now looking for a position where I can continue developing my skills and contribute to a larger team.”
Example 2
“My contract came to an end when the project was completed. It was a great experience, and I’m now hoping to join a company with long-term opportunities.”
Example 3
“The company recently restructured, and my role was made redundant. It gave me a chance to step back and think about the type of work environment I want — which is why this position really appeals to me.”
Example 4
“I realised I wanted to move into a role that allowed more customer interaction. My last job was quite back-office focused, so I’m excited to find a role that plays to my communication strengths.”
Example 5
“I left to focus on completing professional training, and now that’s finished, I’m ready to apply those skills in a new position.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Speaking negatively about your old company or manager.
- Sounding unprepared — this question always comes up.
- Giving too much detail about conflicts or disagreements.
Your tone should always be calm, professional, and forward-looking.
Related Resources
FAQ
How honest should I be about leaving my last job?
Be truthful, but stay professional. Focus on what you learned and how it led you to seek a better fit.
What if I was let go?
Keep it short and neutral — for example, “The company went through changes, and my position was affected.” Then pivot to what you’re looking for now.
Can I say I left because of pay or location?
Yes, but frame it carefully — focus on seeking growth or better alignment, not dissatisfaction.