What to say about leaving a job

Holli R. on April 27, 2015

Interviewing

Before I was diagnosed with early stage ovarian cancer, I left a job because it didn't feel like a good fit and I felt the environment was toxic for me.  I stayed 7 months to get them through their annual conference and they liked the work I did. I didn't find anotther job after several months (slow winter) and began temping (last summer), which I stopped (November) doing due to my diagnosis.  What should I say when asked why I left?  If I say it wasn't a good fit, employers ask why.  One employer threw assumptions at me about failing (over the phone).  I'm also wondering if I should try to get a reference from the employer that I left.  The executive director said she would give me a reference before, but I didn't take her up on it.  


1 Comment

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Julie Jansen

Apr 28, 2015

Career Coach Comment:

Hi Holli, I will be reviewing your resume shortly as well. 

As for your question, I believe that staying as close to the truth as possible with tough questions such as why did you leave your job is important. Instead of simply saying that it wasn't a good fit, add that you planned their event before you left and it was a big success and something you are very proud of and that you are excited about doing the same for you ( potential new employer) and move on in the conversation. This way you stay on a positive note rather than leaving the person thinking it was negative. 

Candidly if someone you are talking to wants to assume the worse about you, you probably wouldn't want to work with or for them anyway. You know your whole story about leaving your job and being diagnosed with cancer so it weighs you down. But usually employers don't dwell on gaps and are most interested in finding the right person who can do the job. You will know when a job is the right fit for you and your history won't matter at that point! 

Take care,

Julie

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