If I’m leaving an agency because the CDs are toxic and uninspiring, what do I tell a prospective agency when they ask why I’m leaving? Do I give ‘em the ole “to explore other opportunities” routine? Surely the truth isn’t the play here.

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Say there’s been layoffs, your go-to mentors are gone, and you’re looking to grow under greater leadership.

Say you’re hoping to vary up the work you’ll work on in the future.

Say you’re ready for new responsibilities.

Say you’re feeling ready for a change.

Say anything. You’re in control of the narrative. Own it and say it however you think’s gonna get you the gig. Good luck!

likesmart

I would potentially frame it like you are looking for new learning opportunities and explain how you expect x agency would fulfill those learning experiences. I agree that saying anything bad about current workspace (even if it’s true!) is kind of a no-no. Maybe you saw work on x client from that agency or know of an inspiring CD who works there. I think it’s perfectly fine to say you’ve noticed something that inspired you and you want the opportunity to participate in it... learn, grow, etc!

likesmart

Flatter the new agency- you want to learn/be pushed/make better work. And they’re the ones you think will give you that.

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You could say you aren’t feeling challenged at work, there are probably a million ways you can say that but are saying this in a smarter way without sounding like you’re complaining

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Whatever you say, it’s a better look to be running toward something than running away.

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Just say the snacks weren’t good

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Say you needed another desk for your new awards cuz the last one was too full.

Jk don't say that you'll sound pretentious and annoying. That said I'd suggest be honest but also explain why. The leadership was toxic... Ok but why was that an issue? Elaborate. Then also turn it into an opportunity to ask about the company culture. How do they deal with toxic employees and if there's any in their team? It's kinda disarming when someone so blunt shows up as an interviewer.

Go with the truth. “I didn’t like the culture, I’m looking for a place that practices what it preaches”

Toxic is overused and relative. I don’t want to hire anyone who doesn’t like their bosses. That’s whining. And makes me think that you’re a complainer and not a helper. Even if your CD did suck. I want to hire people who want to take my job. I’ve worked at sweatshops. I’ve worked for hacks. They’ve all taught me something. Tell them what you’ve learned and how it can help them. At every level it’s all about how you can help your boss. Also don’t use the word narrative.

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