How To Explain Leaving A Toxic Workplace In An Interview

You accept the job of your dreams, and everything seems to be going well. Then, after a few weeks, things take a turn for the worse. You notice that when you speak up in meetings, your boss consistently criticizes your ideas. The leadership team dismisses employee concerns, and a lack of transparency leads to workplace distrust. Morale in the office dips to the point that you notice co-workers starting to leave the company voluntarily. Those are just a few signs that you’ve found yourself in a common situation causing many people to quit their jobs—a toxic workplace.

A toxic work culture is often the primary reason employees quit. In iHire’s 2024 Talent Retention Report, which surveyed 1,544 candidates from 57 industries across the U.S., the most popular reason for voluntary resignations was a toxic workplace. Some common signs of an unhealthy work environment include poor communication, low morale, bullying and a lack of transparency. Toxic work cultures also harm employee health and productivity. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health confirms that the feelings associated with a toxic culture can be detrimental and lead to unnecessary stress, burnout, anxiety and depression.

If you’ve decided to leave a toxic workplace, the first step is to prepare for future interviews. One of the most common questions hiring managers ask is, “Why do you want to leave your current job?” Crafting an authentic explanation in advance is vital so employers understand your work history and feel they can trust you. These steps will help you develop a professional response so you increase your chances of getting the job.

Should You Explain Leaving A Toxic Workplace?

While leaving a toxic workplace might seem like an awkward topic to discuss in interviews, transparency is the best policy. In doing so, you help hiring managers better understand your priorities. Depending on your response, the interviewer can also determine whether you’re trustworthy, confident and well-prepared. Transparency also allows you to make more informed decisions, which can lead to roles that are a better fit. Addressing why you left a toxic workplace sets the stage for a professional relationship filled with trust and mutual respect.

5 Steps To Explain Why You Left A Toxic Workplace

Prior to the interview, prepare to address why you left a harmful work culture. Follow these steps to deliver a response that is sincere and polished.

1. Craft A Response In Advance

Before the interview, think about how you will explain your departure from a toxic work environment. For example, you can describe that the culture at your previous company wasn’t a good fit and that you’re looking for a work environment that aligns with your values. Another option is to point out that you didn’t have career development opportunities and that you feel this organization is a place where you can have a long-term future.

2. Remain Positive

When explaining why you left your previous company, always use positive language. Try not to place blame on others. Instead, take responsibility and describe the actions you took to try to resolve the situation. It’s best to speak in broad terms rather than singling out individuals like your previous boss. If you show how the experience helped you grow professionally, it will convince the interviewer that you can handle challenging work scenarios.

3. Be Brief But Honest

To avoid appearing emotional or resentful, provide a concise but honest response. You will appear more competent and trustworthy if your answer is focused on facts rather than gossip. Remember, the interviewer is forming an opinion about you based on what you say and how you say it. They also focus on how well you will work with others. If they want to know more about why you left, they will ask you for additional details.

4. Focus On Why You’re Interested In The Role

The focus of the interview should always be on why you’re the best fit for the role. So, when you get asked about why you left a toxic workplace, answer briefly and refocus the conversation. For instance, if you explain that your previous company lacked teamwork and open communication, you can discuss how you’re excited about working collaboratively in this new role.

5. Explain Your Long-term Career Goals

To show that you’re committed to advancing within the organization, describe your career goals. That way, you can demonstrate your qualifications while discussing how this role helps you achieve your long-term ambitions. Hiring managers are looking for people who are personally and professionally motivated. You show passion and commitment to the role by outlining your goals while positioning yourself as a strong candidate.

Examples Of How To Respond

Here are a few examples of how to describe leaving an unhealthy company culture without disparaging your previous employer.

• “While I enjoyed my time there, the company culture wasn’t aligned with my values. That’s why I’m seeking a position here where I can contribute to a collaborative environment that fosters creativity and open communication.”
• “The work environment at my previous job didn’t support career development. Now I’m looking for a position that better aligns with my values and priorities.”
• “The challenges I faced in my last role highlighted my need for increased autonomy and decision-making authority. That’s what prompted me to pursue opportunities where I can showcase my leadership and team-building skills.”

A toxic workplace can take a serious toll on your mental and physical health. If the time has come to make your departure, practice how you will explain your reasons in future interviews. By taking a positive, tactful and honest approach, you’ll increase your chances of landing the role and finding a company where you can thrive.