At some point in the interview process, you’re almost guaranteed to be asked: “Why are you leaving your current role?” While it may seem like a straightforward question, your answer carries weight. Employers aren’t just looking for a simple reason—they want to understand what motivates you, what you’re looking for in your next role, and how you handle professional transitions.
The good news? You can turn this into an opportunity to showcase your growth mindset, ambition, and alignment with the new role. With Cyprus’s job market offering solid career progression and training opportunities—41.54% of professionals rate their career growth positively (Emerald Zebra research August 2024)—many employees are looking for roles where they can continue learning and developing.
Here’s how to approach this question successfully while keeping the focus on your future, not your past.
Why Employers Ask This Question
Interviewers ask this question to assess:
Your professional values – What drives you in your career?
Your job satisfaction levels – Are you leaving for positive reasons, or do you frequently move on?
Your attitude towards past employers – Do you stay professional, or do you dwell on negativity?
Your long-term ambitions – Will this role align with your career goals?
A strong answer reassures employers that you’re seeking the right opportunity, not just escaping a bad situation.
How to Answer the Question Positively
The key is to focus on the opportunities ahead rather than problems from the past. Instead of saying what you dislike about your current role, highlight what excites you about the next step.
A great way to start your answer is:
💬 “While I’ve learned a great deal in my current role, I’m looking for an opportunity where I can…”
This naturally shifts the conversation towards growth, learning, and contribution.
Responses based on common reasons for leaving a job.
1. You Want More Career Growth Opportunities
Many professionals in Cyprus feel their career progression is limited—28.86% rated it as only ‘fair’ and 21.88% as ‘poor’. If this applies to you, frame it as a desire to grow, not dissatisfaction.
💡 Example Answer:
“I’ve gained valuable experience in my current role, but I’m now looking for an opportunity that allows me to take on new challenges and grow further.” Add further insights based on what you’ve learned about the interviewing company’s focus on professional development and how their career pathways appeals to you. Further add how you believe your skills align well with the role.
What this shows: You’re proactive about your career and excited about the opportunity.
2. You Want Better Training & Development
Training is a big factor in job satisfaction—while 42.47% of professionals rate it as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’, others feel there’s room for improvement. If learning is important to you, highlight it as a positive career goal.
💡 Example Answer:
“I’ve really enjoyed developing my skills in my current role, but I’m looking for an environment where continuous learning is encouraged. I was particularly impressed by your company’s investment in upskilling, and I’d love to bring my experience while continuing to grow professionally.”
What this shows: You value learning and are eager to develop within a company that supports employee growth.
3. You Feel Underutilized & Want More Challenges
With 50% of employees satisfied with their jobs but 31.62% feeling neutral, some professionals are eager for a role where they can contribute more meaningfully.
Example Answer:
“In my current role, I’ve developed strong skills in X and Y, but I’m eager to apply them in a more dynamic and strategic environment. What excites me about this opportunity is the chance to take on greater responsibility and contribute more directly to company success.”
What this shows: You’re ambitious and looking for a better match for your abilities.
4. You’re Looking for a Company with Strong Leadership & Collaboration
If company culture or leadership wasn’t the right fit in your last role, avoid criticism. Instead, express what you’re looking for in a new work environment.
Example Answer:
“I’ve had the chance to work with some great colleagues, but I’m looking for a workplace that prioritizes collaboration and mentorship. I was excited to learn that X, Y, Z about your organization’s communication and leadership development, and I believe this environment will allow me to thrive.”
What this shows: You value teamwork and align with the company’s culture.
What to Avoid in Your Answer
🚫 Negative Language – Avoid blaming your employer or focusing on frustrations.
🚫 Salary as Your Only Reason – While pay matters, it shouldn’t be your main motivation.
🚫 Vague or Defensive Answers – Keep it clear, confident, and forward-looking.
Final Takeaway: Keep It Positive & Growth-Oriented
Your answer to “Why are you leaving your job?” should emphasize:
What you’ve learned in your current role
What you’re excited about in the new opportunity
How your skills align with the company’s goals
By staying positive, professional, and focused on growth, you’ll impress hiring managers and show them that you’re ready for the next step in your career.
At Emerald Zebra, we help professionals navigate career transitions and find roles that match their ambitions. If you’re looking for your next opportunity, register your CV to our talent pool today and be the first to hear about relevant new job opportunities in Cyprus!
Note: The insights and statistics referenced in this article are based on data from the 2024 Cyprus Salary & Job Satisfaction Survey, conducted by Emerald Zebra. The findings reflect market trends across the Fintech, Tech, Finance, and iGaming sectors in Cyprus and are intended to provide general guidance on career development and job market conditions.
