DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am currently working at a job I hate. I finally decided to begin searching for more fulfilling employment.
How do I answer the question, "Why are you leaving a good, steady job after 13 years?" I want to be honest with potential employers, but saying, "I hate my current job and it is slowly destroying my soul" is just not the right way to go.
What would be the best way to answer this without lying or sounding quite so bitter?
GENTLE READER: If you were divorced, would you approach a romantic prospect by talking about how much you hate your former spouse? Although come to think of it, lots of people think this is a charming way of becoming acquainted.
In both cases, Miss Manners would consider it more effective to express your admiration for the new. To tell a potential employer that you find the possibility of change, and in particular of working there, exciting is not a lie. After all, you likely are excited about leaving a job you hate.