When Exiting Your Interview, Know What to Say As You're Leaving

By: , On: Wednesday, 24 Jun 2009

Overview:

Your exit statement concisely answers the question: "Why did you leave your last job?"

You can think of it as your "press release" because it is the device that tells the world about your transition. An effective exit statement is brief, non-defensive and positive. When applicable, it lets others know that your departure was not due to any fault of yours.

You will also want to share your exit statement with your references so that you and your references give essentially the same reason for your leaving your previous employer.

Now, write a careful statement that explains why you are in the market for a new position, and practice it aloud so that you become skilled at delivering it.

Description:

Exit Statement Examples

As a result of the merger of Walnut Industries and Parsons Products, 300 positions were eliminated, including mine. I am now exploring opportunities that will take full advantage of my extensive management experience, as well as my engineering and manufacturing background, in the food and chemical industries.

The recent reorganization of Technical Publishing has afforded me the opportunity to explore new options. With my record of improving profits, extending market penetration, developing new products and managing significant cost containment, my objective is to locate a position as Senior Operating Executive in an international publishing environment.

The recent acquisition of Larchwood Enterprises by Tangent Corporation created a number of duplicate functions and positions. Because of these duplications, a number of positions have been eliminated, including mine. I look forward to joining the management team of a new venture in electronics. I know that many of them will value my 15 years of experience in successfully turning around struggling companies.

The parent company of Redstone Corporation decided to consolidate many of the support functions into their Omaha headquarters. While I was given an opportunity to relocate, I decided to remain here near family. I am now looking for an opportunity to transfer my experience and skill to a local organization.

As a result of Caldwell Internationals decision get out of the high tech electronics business, they eliminated the R&D function including the lead researchers such as myself. Since there are many high tech organizations doing similar kinds of work, I am looking for and organization that could benefit from the research experience I could bring to their projects.