How do I handle "why did you leave?"

[dandk1997RN, MSN, RN]

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?

[JustNursn]

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.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

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.

[SubSippi]

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!