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Example answers to the "Why do you want to change your career path?" interview question
Helen Oswald

Example answers to the "Why do you want to change your career path?" interview question

Artwork by: Antonina Kasyanikova

Being asked why you want to change your career path is a tricky question that can make or break an interview. To effectively answer this question, use our guide that includes sample answers to impress recruiters.

One of the more challenging questions that can crop up during an interview is “Why do you want to change your career path?” While it may seem like any other interview question, it can actually make or break an interview.

When asking this question, hiring managers want to hear that you are changing your career path for the right reasons. Whether you are doing a complete 180 degree career switch, targeting a different industry, or seeking a new job function, preparing the best possible answer will take you one step further on the path to your dream job.

In this article we explore:

  • Reasons recruiters ask why you want to change your career path

  • Best approach to answering “Why do you want to change your career path?”

  • Example answers for the changing your career path interview question

Expert Tip

If you are switching careers completely, had an employment gap, or recently graduated then a functional resume will help you get a foot in the door. This resume focuses on your skills, studies, and relevant experience to highlight your suitability for a new career direction.

Reasons for the “Why do you want to change your career path?” interview question

Making a career change can be both an exciting and challenging time, so if you’ve managed to get a foot in the door via an interview, well done! Understanding why recruiters want to know the background to your career change is critical in order to keep your interview on track.

When asking this question, hiring managers will be looking to uncover:

  • What appealed to you directly about this specific job and why?

  • How long have you been considering a change in career path?

  • Have you been proactive in filling any skill gaps?

These questions will be underpinned by the key factor of whether you will prove to be a good fit for the team and company. 

Do
  • Tell a story when talking about your change in career. Link your past experience to your future career direction. This will make your answers more compelling in the interview.
Don't
  • Be negative. Talking about how you hated your last job, disliked your boss, found the work boring, or the money terrible won’t go down well with the hiring manager.

Best approach to answering “Why do you want to change your career path?”

Understanding why hiring managers ask the question is the first stage in the process. When you move to answering questions about your change in career path, the key is to stay positive and complete some background work to prepare the best possible answer:

1. Review the job description

Read and re-read the job description. Look for keywords that are repeated or emphasized as important skills and experience. You can then factor these into your answer and show the hiring manager your suitability for the role.

2. Research the company

Conducting research on the company is going to make your answer more compelling and persuasive. Dig a bit deeper than a quick review of company activities. What is their mission, vision, and ethos? What does their company culture look like? This information will enable you to talk about why you would be a good fit for their team. 

3. Be honest

Answer honestly when sharing the reasons for your career change. If you have any skill gaps, don’t be afraid to mention these but detail how you plan to fill these gaps moving forward. Focus on keeping your answer direct, succinct, and impactful to hold the hiring managers interest.

4. Show adaptability

Highlight your adaptability as much as you can. Write down all the skills you have developed such as project management, data analysis, client liaison etc. Think about how the skills you already have are useful for this new role and/or industry, then talk about how you can apply these skills if appointed.

Example answers for the changing your career path interview question

Changing your career path can happen for a multitude of reasons. Here are some example answers to give you some inspiration.

1. Switching job function and industry

Example


“While I loved the excitement and challenge of the corporate world, I didn’t find my career very fulfilling. My favorite part of the job was working with clients, building positive relationships, and helping them to achieve their goals.


So, following the pandemic, I decided to complete certifications in the field of counseling, a field I’ve always been really passionate about. I secured my state behavioral health license and just completed 12 months of volunteer work at a local treatment center.


I feel that I have now found my true calling, and I’m ready to advance my career. I’ve always been really impressed with the work ABC Recovery does and read about your new treatment center opening last year. I’d love to join your team and I’m committed to providing high levels of care and support to your clients.”

2. Switching job function

Example


“Working in technical support has given me great skills and experience in terms of customer service, product knowledge, and data analysis. I’m also required to meet various monthly targets and KPIs, so I’m confident I can apply these skills in the Sales Associate role with DEF Tech. 


I’m looking for a challenging, team-oriented environment, where I can advance my sales skills and contribute to your company’s ongoing success."

3. Switching industry

Example


“While I’ve enjoyed my time as a teacher, I’ve always had a passion to pursue a career in writing. I completed a content writing course earlier this year and have gained experience in educational writing via several freelance projects. 


I believe this new career path will make the most of my teaching expertise while also enabling me to hone my writing skills as I help the company to increase its market presence.”

Key takeaways

  1. Be honest when answering the question “Why do you want to change your career path?” Focus on your real intentions for your career change, your transferable skills and experience, as well as your commitment to filling any skill gaps if required.

  2. Closely review the job description and research the company, including their values and culture, so your answer can demonstrate you are the perfect fit for the company as well as the team and the job.

  3. Highlight your adaptability. This is a skill every employer is looking for and shows that you are enthusiastic about meeting the challenges of the job and keen to learn new things.

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