How to Fill Reasons for Leaving on a Job Application?

People switch companies or careers for several reasons. Some common reasons are career advancement, career breaks, lay-offs, organizational restructuring, family emergencies, and personal health. Whatever the reason, you must input the actual reason in your job application, which can be a daunting task. To help you navigate through this process, this blog on ‘How to Fill Reasons for Leaving on a Job Application?’ should be of help. So, keep reading and take inspiration from the tips. 

Also Read: Planning a Career Shift at 30? 10 Pro Tips

How to Fill Reasons for Leaving on a Job Application?

Filling in the “Reasons for Leaving” on a job application does not have to be an intimidating task. You can present yourself as an ideal professional by approaching it with honesty and a positive attitude. Also, you must remember that every career move is an opportunity for growth, and your ability to convey that positively can significantly impact potential employers.

Now, let us explore ‘How to Fill Reasons for Leaving on a Job Application?’

1. Understand the Purpose

Before filling out the “Reasons for Leaving” section, it is important to understand why employers ask for this information. They do so to seek insight into your past work experiences to evaluate your professional background, work ethic, and reasons for making career moves. Therefore, this section helps them assess whether you are a good fit for their organization. Also, this information lets employers analyze whether you can contribute to the company or not. 

2. Be Honest

Furthermore, when filling out the “Reasons for Leaving,” honesty is key. To be honest, you must avoid fabricating reasons as employers appreciate authenticity. Thus, it is essential that whether you leave a job due to personal growth, seeking new challenges, or a change in personal circumstances, be truthful. Besides, you must be honest while maintaining a professional tone.

3. Frame Your Reasons Positively

Also, you must always frame your reasons in a positive light even if your departure from a previous job was not on your terms. 

4. Do Not Use Negative Language

In addition, you must avoid using negative language when explaining your reasons for leaving. Negative statements about previous employers or colleagues can reflect poorly on you. Instead of pointing fingers, concentrate on your growth and the positive aspects of the new opportunities you are pursuing. 

Also Read: 4 Things to Consider Before a Career Change

What to List as Reasons for Leaving a Job?

Now that you have a decent idea of ‘How to Fill Reasons for Leaving on a Job Application?’, it’s time to explore common reasons to quit a job. Some reasons are straightforward professional, whereas, some have personal reasons. The former is easily acceptable, whereas the latter requires certain explanations.

Professional Reasons to Leave a Job

The following reasons are easily accepted by potential employers:

• Budget restraints
• Career switch
• Layoffs
• Organisational restructuring
• Promotion with increased responsibilities at the same salary
• Study abroad
• Elimination of the position
• Prioritised passion over career for a short duration
• My last job was on a contractual basis

Personal Reasons to Leave a Job

Whereas, the following reasons are often difficult to accept by new employers:

• Caring for a family member facing health challenges
• A personal health challenge
• Relocated to be near family
• Relocated due to a spouse’s job transfer
• Opted for a career break
• Temporarily became a stay-at-home parent to care for young children

Also Read: 3 Signs to Leave Your Job

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