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How should I handle "why did you leave your last job" when the reason is unethical behavior by the employer?

I resigned after attempts to address several issues went nowhere. Add in the factor that this is a well known local company that everyone (who doesn't work there) is sure must be the best place on earth to work, and I'm struggling to find the right way to answer this common interview question.

Dustydog asked in Un/Employment about 1 year ago | Report
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  • Img_3620_small
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    Maria Escobar-Bordyn

    I agree with the other comments mentioned regarding not bad-mouthing your past employer. And, there isn't a way to give the specifics without coming across as a complainer (no matter how hard we try!).

    However, given that you've resigned a position without having another one, in a bad economy (which, by the way, is NOT a bad thing!), you can expect a future employer to probe as to why. Just focusing on finding a new opportunity may not suffice as a reason.

    You could say something like,'My department/organization was moving in a direction that wasn't the right fit for me, so I decided it was the right time to look for an opportunity in an organization where I can focus on______ (or work on______, or solve_______,) and that's why I'm interested to talk to you today." Whatever you say here, should match what they need!

    You've been truthful, in a positive way, and without getting into detail Keep it focused on what you're moving toward,and don't get pulled into any negative discussion; it will rarely work to your advantage.

    Maria Escobar-Bordyn answered in Un/Employment about 1 year ago | Report
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  • Hey_girl_hey_small
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    It sounds like you have some strong opinions about your former employer and it is best to leave those at the door when you go to interview.

    Careers advice is good. Never badmouth a former employer during the interview process, save that for the water cooler after you are hired. Just kidding.

    Since you resigned you can simply use the "left for more challenging opportunities" answer, "left for a better work life balance" answer, "looking for a better culture fit" answer or any variation thereof.

    Dan Williams answered in Un/Employment about 1 year ago | Report
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  • Picture_of_me_small
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    Regardless of why you left, don't badmouth your employer or boss. Possibilities: " I am interested in a new challenge and an opportunity to use my technical skills and experience in a different capacity than I have in the past."

    Think about what you would like to do in your future employment and irregardless of your last experience: was there something that was lacking or that you would have loved to have the capacity to do? Focus on that and create a POSITIVE response to the question, " Why did you leave your last position?"

    careers answered in Un/Employment about 1 year ago | Report
    2 comments by O my captain and O my captain…
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