Explaining Your Career Change in an Interview

"Why are you changing careers?" comes up in almost every interview. A clear answer turns your change from a question mark into a strength.

Keep it short and positive

Aim for about a minute. Focus on what draws you to the new role, not on what you disliked about the old one. Criticising a previous employer or sector rarely helps.

A simple structure

1. What drew you to this work: the moment you realised you enjoyed it, often a task in your current job.
2. What you bring: two or three strengths from your previous career that matter in this role, with a brief example.
3. What you have done about it: the skills you have learned and the work you have produced.
4. Why this role: what attracts you to this team or organisation in particular.

Bring evidence

Be ready to talk through one project in detail: the problem, your approach, what went wrong and what you would do differently. This is often the most persuasive part of the interview.

Be honest about gaps

If you are asked about something you have not done yet, say so, then explain how you would approach it or how you are learning it. Honesty about gaps, paired with a plan, builds trust.

Practise out loud

Say your answer out loud several times, and ideally to someone who will give you honest feedback. It should sound natural, not memorised.

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