Even in these difficult economic times, a lot of professionals still would like to find a new job or strike out solo and put up their own shingle.
I know. Like most entrepreneurs, prior to starting my own coaching and training company I had a 9-5 (or in my case, a 10-6).
Fortunately, unlike a lot of employees who - out of economic need, fear, or a combo of the two - stay longer than they would like, I left my company prior to losing my ability to be a top performer.
It's important to know when it's time to find a new job.
For I firmly believe, whatever reasons for leaving a job you have, the way you walk away from your company is the way you will show up to a new one - especially if it’s your own, brand-spankin’ new business.
To prevent yourself from staying too long at your current employer or leaving before you are truly prepared to go, I recommend considering these top two points. If you can confidently say “yes” to both of them, most likely you are ready to move on. Just as importantly, you will be able to do it with integrity - before the discomfort of staying outweighs the discomfort of leaving.
Have you accomplished everything you set out to achieve in your existing role?
It’s important both for your own sense of achievement and if you want your employer to recommend you to prospective employers in the future that you have lived up to professional expectations.
A subset to this consideration is, have you taken advantage of all the learning and growth your company is offering? While you may find your day-to-day tasks tedious after your first six-months or year, participating in an employer-sponsored leadership program or stretch assignment may be enough for you to hit your “refresh” button and get re-engaged.
Are you financially prepared to make a move?
Even if you are leaving your current employer for another company and you are going to be receiving a pay raise, make sure you know how long it will be until you receive your first paycheck. Some companies will not issue a new employee his/her first paycheck during the first pay period. If this is the case, you will want to save some extra money so you don’t get yourself into a bind.
If you are planning to walk away from your company to launch your own business or to freelance, it’s important to have between nine months up to one year’s worth of expenses saved. While this might seem unimaginable if you are barely saving currently, you can begin turning your vision into a reality by starting your business as what Life After College author, Jenny Blake, refers to as “a side hustle.”
Then, not only do you give yourself time to grow your business to a point where it can sustain you. You also give yourself extra money for when you do finally make the leap to free agent.
If and when you make the choice to move on, take the time to end your current role with your company with the right kind of bang. Successfully closeout any projects you’ve been working on, set up your predecessor to be successful, and most importantly, sow the seeds to continue to build the relationships you have developed with your colleagues and clients.
You never know when you might be working together again.
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A common interview question employers ask during job interviews is, "Why are you interested in this position?" They want to know why you want to work at their company, and the specific motivation behind why you applied for the job (not that you need a paycheck).
To persuade the employer that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you applied for, your answer to this interview question should start with, "I'm interested in this job, at this company, because…" and then list at least three reasons why you want to work there.
Here is how you should structure your answer to the interview question, "Why are you interested in this job?"
Example: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that, in this role, my skills could help solve this problem within your company. I also see an opportunity for me to learn and grow these skills, so we both would benefit personally, professionally, and financially. If I can come in here and solve problems and accomplish your goals, I know I can develop my career the way that I want to."
This part of your answer lets them know that you are excited about what you will be able to accomplish for them, while still emphasizing what they are getting out of the bargain. You need to sell yourself as a business-of-one who can provide a service better than the competition.
Reason #2 – Cultural Fit
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Your second reason when answering, "Why are you interested in this job?" also shows fit, but in a different way.
Example: "Also, I like the culture of this organization. From what I've heard and what I've been reading about the company, it seems like a great fit for my personality and my values. I really connect with your mission statement, and feel passionate about the work that you do."
This is a general answer, so if you can be more specific by actually naming a couple of things you've heard or read about the company's workplace culture that you like, it will help your cause. This is one area where your pre-interview research is critical.
Does this company value and/or provide resources for employee development?
Mention those things that truly speak to you and your values so your sincerity shows.
Reason #3 – Personal Fit
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Wrap up your answer to this interview question with something that personalizes it a bit more.
Examples:
"And this job is in a great location for me. I've always wanted to move here."
"And this job is only five minutes from my house, so eliminating the commute is a big plus."
"And I've always used your products, and I just love them. I am really excited about being a part of that."
Say something that gives you another reason of your own for wanting this job. This interview answer is a fantastic place to let your enthusiasm for the job show. It's very appealing to employers, and it gives them one more reason to hire you.
Download Work It Daily's FREE list of common interview questions here.
You'll have a very clear and thorough answer to the question, "Why are you interested in this job?" if you follow the formula above. Set yourself apart from the competition today!
Are you struggling to answer other common interview questions? We can help.
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.
