5. Why are you looking for a new job?

In this case, honesty is not always the best policy. Avoid stating any negatives about your previous position. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of change, your love of a challenge and why you will be great in this new job. Highlight your experience and your achievements.

You should have an acceptable reason for leaving every job you have held but, if you don't, pick one of the six acceptable reasons from the employment industry formula, the acronym for which is CLAMPS:

·         C is for challenge. You weren't able to grow professionally in that position

·         L is for location. The journey was unreasonably long.

·         A is for advancement. There was nowhere for you to go. You had the talent, but there were too may people ahead of you.

·         M is for money. You were underpaid for your skills and contribution.

·         P is for pride or prestige.  You wanted to be with a better company.

·         S is for security. The company was not stable.

For example: 'My last company was a family-owned affair. I had gone as far as I was able. It just seemed time for me to join a more prestigious company and accept greater challenges.'

More details and Q/A can be obtained from the JOBFinder Manual