I’m looking for new roles outside of Amazon. I’m looking for places with better work culture and roles which focus on backend development. I’m not liking the work culture and the micro management. The project I have been working on is great but doesn’t use the tech stack I have more interest in. Recruiters always ask this question about why I’m trying to switch roles. Any suggestions on how to answer this question in the most convincing way. Appreciate any advice.
Dm i can help
Just be honest. In my case I say something like, I no longer sense the job security I once had, after seeing some of the best performers I work closely being let go. It impacts my mental health and I'm unable to perform at my best abilities. Which is unfair for both me and Amazon
Yes, the recruiters do ask this upfront if I’m scared of losing the job due to the layoffs.I’m in Alexa org.
I think you have a strong case to support with tangible reasons. Ask yourself first why did you even began looking elsewhere. Jot them down in bullets and pick the one that sounds most convincing and diplomatic
Every company has a weak point that you can say to sort of justify answering that question. For example when I interview outside I say that Apple works in extreme secrecy and hence I don’t like working in siloed culture. I haven’t worked at Amazon so idk but pretty sure you can find a generic fault which is sort of a public info already and use that as a reply.
“What can you contribute?” - “an employee”
Recruiters can be caught up in toxic positivity. So in summary, talk positively about where you want to go instead of talking negatively about Amazon. That'll make a difference. Also, try to sound more certain/knowledgeable about the specific role you want. Recruiters can be too focused on presentation.
Just frame the same thing you said without using negatives .. like instead of saying you don’t like the work culture where you are — say that you are looking for a place that would be the best fit for you in terms of work culture - somewhere where you can see yourself stay and grow long term. You are looking for a place where you would be excited to contribute in and grow in for a long time. Sometimes I’m cheesy enough to say xxx company I’m interviewing for has a great reputation and I’ve heard great things and I’m here because it is the company that attracted me the most .. Don’t go into specifics about tech stack .. Just let them know when it’s time to ask questions that this is the tech you are interested in and whether the position would involve that.
You already answered the question. Why are you so worried about getting rejected?
I talked with few recruiters who liked my profile. But I almost never hear back after the recruiter screen. Not sure where the problem is.
the market is pretty bad at the moment