How To Answer, ‘What’s Something That You Didn’t Like About Your Last Job?’ In A Job Interview

We apply for a new job for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, we just want to earn more money or change our routine, perhaps move to another place, meet new people, or see new places.

However, in most cases, we may not like something about our current workplace. It might be small, but it could also be a major reason we consider leaving your employer.

What does the interviewer want to hear by asking this question?

Whether you won’t dislike the same thing in their company or if you are one of those employees who can hardly stay at one workplace continuously.

Here are some insights from an expert to help you answer this tricky interview question;

1. Avoid venting

Even for those who genuinely love our careers, “What’s something that you didn’t like about your last job?” is a question we could easily talk about. However, an interview is not the place to express dissatisfaction, such as how your boss was a micromanager or that you never liked some of your colleagues.

That’s because this question isn’t really about discovering what you dislike.

It is more likely to test how you might behave if someone invited you to vent. According to Godfrey, an interview coach, “The interviewer wants to know if you’re the type of person who will go negative when given the opportunity.”

Ensure that your reply does not leave the interviewer thinking they can be your next gossip victim if things do not work out. Speaking negatively of your current employer reflects poorly on you, not the company.

2. Do your research

Before the interview, research the company to learn more about its business operations, mission, and values. Read articles about the company or search its website for this information.

Review the job description for the position you’re applying for to make sure you understand its primary responsibilities. This research can help you tailor your response to the question and speak positively about the position or organisation.

For example, if you dislike your current job because you primarily work on the computer, you can explain why you’d be happy interacting with customers in the new position.

3. Stay positive

Godfrey says that despite the challenges one may have faced in one’s previous role, it is always important to maintain a positive tone.

“Start your answer by saying something good about your previous employer or job”, he advises.

For example, “Working for my current company has allowed me to improve my skills and learn new tasks, and I’m grateful for those opportunities. I’m applying for this job because working remotely has become challenging for me. I’ve learned I thrive in an office environment, where I can collaborate with my coworkers by stopping at their desks to ask questions or share ideas. If hired for this position, I look forward to working in the office and using my interpersonal skills to build meaningful relationships with the team here.”

Bottom line;

Show the interviewer that you would be an exceptional candidate for the position is as simple as answering the “What’s something that you didn’t like about your last job?” question professionally and positively while remaining honest and open.

Ready to answer this one? I hope so! If you want to make sure that you stand out with your answers and outclass your competitors, book a one-on-one interview coaching session and get to practice for the actual interview!