Explaining why you are changing jobs and why Shopify fits you long term

In a product manager interview at Shopify, you are asked a two-part question: what is pushing you to leave the job you have now, and why do you believe Shopify would hold your interest over the long term? Give the answer you would actually say in the room. ```hint Push and pull Frame the reason for leaving as something you are moving toward, and make the second half specific enough that it could not be said about any other company. ``` ### Clarifying Questions - How long should the answer be: a short spoken reply, or the start of a longer walk through your career? - Which team or product area is the role on, so that the "why Shopify" half can connect to the actual work? - Is the interviewer probing a specific retention concern, such as several short stints on your resume, or asking about motivation in general? ### What a Strong Answer Covers - A truthful reason for leaving, framed around what the candidate wants next, with no criticism of the current employer or colleagues. - Concrete evidence from current work that the candidate is ready for what they are seeking. - Reasons for Shopify that are specific to its merchants, its products and this role, showing real research. - A credible link between what keeps the candidate engaged over time and what the role will keep offering, which addresses the retention worry behind the question. - A clear, concise structure. ### Follow-up Questions - What would make you leave Shopify after a year? - If your current employer offered you the scope you want tomorrow, would you stay? Why or why not? - Which merchant problem would you most like to work on first, and what did you see that made you pick it?