If Asked About Why the Sudden Leave of a Job, What Should I Say?

Your Corporate Black Girl

Nikki, I need help!

I was recently let go of my current position due to a mistake I made and now I am currently going through an interview process.

If asked about why the sudden leave of the job what should I say? (Both positions are within the same industry).

Would it be better to explain what happened and tell the truth or make something up?

-A Student In Toronto

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Dear Recently Let Go,


Be creatively honest. I think it's always important to tell the truth and have integrity in what you're doing, even when it means admitting your faults.

I'm not sure how big the mistake was, if this was your only mistake or if you have a pattern of making similar mistakes.

In this situation, I think you should let companies know that the department or company was making some changes and decided to reduce their staff. May sound strange, but you're not lying...

The really big thing here is to make sure that you've learned from this mistake(s) and experience. If asked on these interview questions about prior experiences where you can provide more information on your past employment, it may be a good idea to provide as much context without painting yourself into a corner. Give highlights but promote your good skills, ie. Problem-solving, solution-seeking, team building, etc.

I'm not going to lie, this journey may be difficult but lead with integrity always, keep your head up and be positive!

You've got this,

Nikki Davis

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NIKKI

Your curly girl manager, just trying to live her happiest life! 

Wife, new mom, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. with 11 years industry experience, 6 years of management experience. Manager a team of men in a male dominant industry, while being the only woman on the team. DIY fashion blogger, a self taught seamstress. Owner/Creator of a monthly subscription service, SewConscious.com. 

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