Why did you leave your previous job? What are you looking for in your next role?
RoleCustomer Service Representative
DifficultyEasy
TopicCultural Fit
Asked at
Why This Is Asked
Sutherland wants to assess longevity and whether your reasons for leaving align with what they offer. They've had feedback that some hires leave due to night shift or salary realities, so they want to see if you've thought this through. It's also a test of professionalism: can you discuss a past employer neutrally?
General Approach
Always frame it positively. Even if you were fired, say it was a mismatch and you learned from it. Mention specific things Sutherland offers (like career development, diverse accounts) that attract you. Show you've done your homework. Keep it brief and future-focused.
General Answer
Start by treating this as a chance to show you are deliberate, not desperate. Say plainly that your previous role taught you solid fundamentals, but you reached a point where you wanted more room to grow, whether that meant handling tougher accounts, learning new tools, or taking on more responsibility. If the separation was not your choice, keep it factual and neutral, something like the role was restructured, and you took it as a signal to pivot toward a company with clearer career paths. Then pivot directly to Sutherland. Name something specific you verified, like their internal mobility programs or the variety of client campaigns, and connect it to what you are looking for, which is stability, a team that shares your work ethic, and a schedule you can genuinely sustain. If night shift comes up, acknowledge it head on. Say you have researched the reality of BPO hours, you have adjusted your routine, and you are ready for it, because that honesty signals you will not quit in three months. Keep your tone calm, your answers short, and your focus forward, never on grievances. End with a simple line that ties your goals to their needs, such as you want a role where your customer service skills can translate into long-term value for their clients.
PH Interview Gotcha
Wag mong sabihin: 'Ang toxic kasi ng boss ko doon' or 'Mababa sahod.' Even if true, it sounds like you're a complainer. Instead, focus on your growth needs and how Sutherland is a better fit. Also, avoid the Pinoy habit of saying 'Actually, tinanggal po ako' unless asked, frame it as a voluntary move for career progression.
Sample STAR Answer▾
S
Situation
My previous job was as a retail salesperson in a mall. I enjoyed the customer interaction, but the shifting schedule made it hard to plan my week, and the salary was purely commission-based, which was stressful.
T
Task
I wanted to find a stable job where I could use my people skills but have a fixed shift and a guaranteed base pay, while still having growth opportunities.
A
Action
I researched BPO companies and learned that Sutherland offers structured career paths and training programs. I also attended a free English communication workshop to brush up on my phone skills.
R
Result
That research led me to apply here. I'm now confident that my customer-facing experience and my willingness to work night shifts align with what you need for this CSR role.
Key Takeaway
Leaving a job isn't about running away; it's about moving toward something better. I learned to identify what I value most: stability, skill development, and a company that invests in its employees.
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