What they are really asking

You've told them you like your current job, and now they're checking whether that's true, and what could pull someone away from a job they like. The interviewer is looking for a reason that is specific to this role. If you're happy but you'd leave for anything, you'll probably leave them too. If you're happy and you'd only leave for this kind of opportunity, that's the best thing they could hear.

Don't backtrack. Suddenly listing problems with your current job makes your first answer sound false. Stay with the fact that you're happy, and say what this role offers that your current one can't.

A shape that works

Confirm, the one thing, why this role. Confirm briefly that you are happy, with one reason. Name the one thing your current job can't give you. Then show that this role gives it, and that you're being selective. A line like "I'm only applying for roles like this one" tells them you aren't looking around at random.

Model answers

Listen to how each answer is built, then make it yours.

Answer 1: a sales rep in Austin
Answer 2: a nurse in Kyoto
Answer 3: a product designer in London

Check yourself

1What does the interviewer hope to hear?
2Why is it a mistake to suddenly list problems with your current job?
3Which line shows you're being selective?

Practice · 3 min

Write one sentence confirming you like your current job or studies, with a reason. Then write one sentence on what it can't give you, and one on how this role gives it. Record your answer. Check that you don't mention any problem with your current job that you didn't mention before.

Your recording stays on this device. Nothing is uploaded.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.