[HPFGU-OTChatter] Need job interview advice. Please.

[P. Alexis Nguyen]

Luckdragon:
> My dilemma is in what do I say to
> prospective employers when asked why I left. If I am truthful and say I
> left due to conflict with my employer a red flag is instantly raised.
> Does anyone have any advice on how to creatively, but truthfully get
> through this question.

Sometimes people just aren't a good fit for the companies they're at;
half the time, it's neither the company nor individual's fault.  This
is a common HR issue, and assuming that, like many companies, the HR
department does the interviewing, they'll be understanding if you just
say that - you loved the job, but you and the company just weren't a
good fit.  If you're pushed to explain, be diplomatic and succinct,
say something to the effect that you felt like it was time to move on.

The simple truth is that, no matter what you say, they've already got
questions in their minds.  And really, by the time they get around to
asking you about your past jobs, they've probably already decided
whether or not to hire you - unless that's the first question they
ask, which would indeed be unusual.  The interview is important to
gauge how well you and the company might fit together, so just be your
charming best.

Best of luck!  I think I'm about to start hitting the trade journals
again, so I empathize (especially since my current job puts me in your
exact position).

~Ali