How do I handle "why did you leave?"

Nurses Job Hunt

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Specializes in Cardiology.

There are jobs to be found where I live and I don't intend to leave the one I have until I have another, but I am being forced to look for a new position. The background:

I've been with my employer for nearly thirteen years- I have been an RN for 1 year, and prior to this I was a shift supervisor in the lab. My employer recently merged with other systems and informed us a couple days ago that they would be cutting our shift differential to $4 whether we work evenings or nights (because they are "equally inconvenient" which, as someone who just switched from evenings to weekends, I can tell you is ridiculous.) This represents a significant pay decrease for me (and a MUCH bigger decrease for the poor nurses who are maxed out in their pay.)

Long story short is I can no longer afford to work here, which obviously doesn't sound good in an interview.

Thoughts on how to handle this inevitable question?

I always say I'm looking for new opportunity to do ...(fill in the blank). Always focus on the positives and don't bash your current/previous employer.

Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

You can always fall back on just stating that "recent organizational changes" have prompted your decision. Then you can respectfully decline to provide more information because it would be a breach of confidentiality. It's the truth, isn't it? This type of answer conveys your professionalism - PP is correct, bashing current or previous employers is always a bad move.

You could say something along the lines of...although you've enjoyed your current job, the one you're interviewing for is more in line with your interests, career goals, etc.

I think it's better to sound like you're applying for a job because that one in particular interests you, instead of like you're looking for something new because you have a problem with your current employer (however valid that problem may be). Good luck!

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