It is important when answering this question to put a positive spin on your answer, even if the circumstances under which you left were less than perfect, i.e. due to a conflict of personalities, poor performance, money issues, being bored or any of the reason. When answering this question keep it short and to the point, don't waffle on. Interviewees who try to explain in length can come across as trying to overly justifying their answer or trying to do a cover-up job.
Reasons for leaving
Stating that you left for "better career opportunities" sounds to cliché, it would be sound better to say " I am looking for a position which enables me to use my skills and experience as an ___" Here again you've stressed the positives and not dished your previous employees. Also here you can stress those skills and experience that are aligned with those in the job description and person spec of the position you are applying for.
Overused phrase
"I left my previous employer because there was no room for growth" - again this is phrased as a negative. The interviewer may see this as lack of motivation, or boredom with the job. A better response would be "I am looking for a position in a larger organisation where there are better promotional opportunities"
Fired
If you were fired, take responsibility for it, above all stress what you have learnt and how you have change from that experience.
Money
Stating that you left because of money issues may ring alarm bells with your interviewer. It may suggest that you are solely financially motivated. If another well paid job came - would you jump ship without a moments thought? Why then would an employer invest time and money in you.
Don’t dish previous employer
Even if you feel it is justified and your just itching to tell what he/she was like - don't. It reflects badly on you. Firstly it shows that you not clued up enough about the interview process to know this and secondly it could raise flags that it’s you who is difficult to get along with. Before questions are asked about why you left previous employment, you have to build up a positive (I can do this job) impression, so that by the time they get to this question, hopefully all of your positive attributes will outweigh any negative issues that happened in the past.
Find more in depth answers to common interview questions at More Job interview advice can be found at http://www.adminjobsuk.co.uk/Interviewquestions1.htm
Avril Jones is a job Interview Advisor
Source: www.isnare.com