AboutRuth Butler Expertise I will answer questions about resumes and how to do well on an interview. I am a former employment counselor and I have owned my own resume and career counseling business since 1982.
Expert: Ruth Butler Date: 1/31/2008 Subject: why did you leave the company
Question I was terminated from a well known company after 10 years of service for violating the fraternization policy. I am currently employed but really feel as though I was forced to accept a position that I am over-qualified for. I told myself I would keep this position just to avoid a huge gap in employment and continue searching for a job that better fits my qualifications. I have had a number of interviews and really felt good about how my past experience and knowledge of the industry would benefit me. However, I have had no success. I have been honest about my termination in interviews and have always tried to make it sound as positive as possible (after all, she and I are set to be married this year). But it seems as if the emergency breaks are applied to any possible prospects once that dreaded question is asked..."why did you leave your previous employer?" I know my previous employer is only allowed to release the dates of employment, my last position held, and if I'm eligible for rehire (the answer to the latter would be "no"). My question to you is should I continue telling the truth or am I shooting myself in the foot?
Answer Dear Tim:
It seems that have to tell some of the story since you are not eligible for rehire. You need to keep it short and simple. I made a poor error in judgement and fell in love with someone I worked with which was against company policy. We are getting married, so in retrospect, the situation turned out well personally. I was an excellent employee for ten years and I feel I could be a definite asset to your company since that was the only poor error in judgement (as far as company policy) went.
See how it goes and let me know. Warmly, R. Butler
