Reason for leaving

[jay]

Hi,

I've got an interview for my dream job, IT Support, on Thursday and the question I am dreading the most is if they ask me why I left my previous job (after only 5 months) which was also IT Support. I am currently employed by a temping agency doing admin work although I do a lot of databasing.

I put on my application form that my reason for leaving was unfair working conditions but I fear they may ask me to expand upon that.

I left because of various reasons mainly because me boss (also the owner of the company) used to pick on me, single me out as the only woman in the company, ask unreasonable things of me and basically made my life hell! (even though I loved the work). On top of that I was working 9.00am - approx. 11.00pm sometimes even later and weekends and it was taking an hour each way to get to and from work. All for £10,000 a year!

I don't want to mention the hours because this job involves some overtime which I wouldn't mind as its closer to home and the job will with local Council offices so I know it won't be unreasonable overtime.

I don't want to focus on negative things or go in and slag off me previous boss and I had a previous interview where the interviewer made a big thing about this and needless to say I didn't get the job!

How do you thing I should answer this question?

Also I have various qualifications that I listed in my application form, they haven't asked to see the certificates, should I take them to the interview anyway? (I don't want to be laden with baggage!)

I would be grateful for any help and advice possible!!

Thanks :-)

[Rogmok]

i've been in that situation.. i think you can mention it, just be very tactful about what you say. For instance, you don't want to sound whiny or defensive. But try to talk about it objectively..

I don't remember what i said exactly, but i remember i used to tell interviewers something like "My employer and I had personality differences... " and i would talk about how there was no room for career growth at the company because my employer only saw value in what I was doing, and didn't have any need for me to do anything more advanced and such.

and you can kinda play it by ear, some interviewers are pretty relaxed and friendly and are just looking for an honest answer. so in some cases I just came out and said it.. like, i disliked working for my boss because he was condescending and racist.

its always a testy thing, when you leave a job in unfavorable conditions. Good luck in your interview!

[maxdacat]

sounds like you left for all the right reasons.....i think if you emphasise the long hours you put in and little reward they will see that you are a go-getter.....i hope this new job pays more!!

which part of the UK are you in anyway?.....i'm based in london.....looking forward to the mercury reaching 100 on wednesday!!!...cor blimey what a heatwave!!!

[lethal]

I'd emphasize that the other job was much further from home. The commute was really getting to you so perhaps it was too far for your tastes and that this job is much closer.

The commute is a completely neutral yet valid reason for leaving a job.

[sweetmangos]

i think the reason you left is very valid but i agree with wording
it in a tactful manner. you can say that you left for personal reasons.
you felt that your skills were not used in the most beneficial way for
the company. maybe you can say you felt limited and you are looking
for an opportunity where your skills can be fully utilized because that
what you are looking for. you can also say you want to be more challenged
and your previous work environment did not allow for much growth.

i hope you're not using your old boss as a reference!

and good luck with your interview. i hope you get the job!