The decision to resign is not something simple. Usually, an employee chooses to resign because major factors affect their comfort, career development, or personal life.

These factors can come from various conditions, ranging from company circumstances and employees’ personal situations to more promising external opportunities.

The issue is that when you move to another company and apply for a new job, HR will almost certainly ask why you left your previous job.

That question may seem simple, but it is actually crucial because it reflects your professionalism, maturity in making decisions, and understanding of the career direction you want to pursue.

To be able to provide positive, relevant, and professional reasons, here are several examples of the most reasonable resignation reasons during interviews at a new company.

1. Looking for Better Career Development

Not all companies provide adequate opportunities for growth. When learning space or increased responsibilities feel stagnant, it is reasonable to look for a place that better supports career development.

Sample answer:

“I learned and contributed a lot at my previous company. However, the career development opportunities were quite limited. What I see in this company is opportunities that are more aligned with my long-term career plans.”

2. Wanting to Focus on a More Suitable Field

Over time, many employees realize that their work does not match their interests or skills. Switching to a more relevant field is highly understandable.

Sample answer:

“I gained valuable experience in operations. However, after some time, I realized my interest is stronger in digital marketing, so I am looking for opportunities that better match my passion and expertise.”

3. Experiencing Limited Promotion Opportunities

Certain organizational structures do limit promotion opportunities. If you have consistently shown maximum performance, but there is no room to grow, moving on is a logical choice.

Sample answer:

“For three years, I consistently met the targets given. However, the company’s organizational structure offered little room for promotion. I want to grow further, and I see that opportunity available in this company.”

4. Wanting to Improve Work-Life Balance

Work productivity will decline if the work rhythm is no longer balanced with personal life. Seeking a company that better supports this balance is a healthy and professional step.

Sample answer:

“I gained a lot of experience at my previous company. However, the working hours were quite long, which reduced my productivity. I’m seeking to work in an environment that values the balance between work and personal life.”

5. Relocating Residence

Moving house or following family are among the most easily understood reasons for resignation.

Sample answer:

“I moved to Jakarta to be closer to my family, so I need to find a job that matches my location. This position fits my experience and is relevant to my current place of residence.”

6. Experiencing the Impact of Company Restructuring

Restructuring can change an employee’s role or responsibilities. If these changes are no longer aligned with skills or career goals, this can be a logical reason.

Sample answer:

“After the restructuring, my role changed quite significantly and was less aligned with my expertise and professional goals. Therefore, I am seeking another more relevant position.”

7. Experiencing Unsupportive Work Environment

Sometimes the work environment can lower performance. However, always positively convey this without criticizing the previous company.

Sample answer:

“I experienced several challenges in my previous work environment, which made collaboration less effective. I am looking for an environment that better supports productivity and innovation, such as in this company.”

Tips for Answering Resignation Questions Professionally

During interviews at a new company, to make your resignation reasons sound convincing, pay attention to the following points:

• Convey your answer with a positive tone. Avoid criticizing the company, supervisors, or colleagues.
• Align your answer with the position you are applying for. Ensure the reason is relevant and shows that you are serious about your future career plans.
• Focus on self-development. Explain that the decision was based on the need to grow, not just to find a new job.
• Practice before the interview. By rehearsing, your answer will sound more natural and not memorized.

These are some examples of the most reasonable reasons for resignation that you can use as answers during interviews at a new company. But equally important is to make sure the company you’re applying to has a positive work culture and promising career prospects, such as PT Serasi Autoraya (SERA).

SERA is one of the largest transportation, auction, and logistics companies in Indonesia and has been established since 1990 under the Astra Group. To this day, SERA regularly opens job vacancies across various fields and positions.

For more details, visit https://career.sera.astra.co.id/. Choose one of the available positions, click Apply, and follow the process until completion.

Don’t forget to follow SERA’s social media on Instagram @serasiautoraya and LinkedIn Serasi Autoraya for the latest job openings and career tips.