Why Did You Leave Your Last Job? Answered

So you’re out of a job and the reason you left your last one was for reasons you’d rather not discuss, especially with your prospective employer. Let’s say you and your previous boss had a big argument resulting to your resigning in a flurry of anger. But the problem comes up when you’re applying for a new job and is being asked why you left your last one.

Now, if you were asked to fill out a form, the best thing to write there would be a “difference of opinion” between you and your boss. But once you’re asked to explain in detail, you might start to flounder.

In any case, remember the importance of a good reference. Along the way, you will need people who know how you work and the extent of your ability. So basically, the best choice would be to mend your fences and talk to your previous boss. Chances are he or she is also regretting the rash decision and might be even eager to talk to you. So you might as well pick up the phone and talk about what happened.

However, if you just can’t bring yourself to do this and there seems to be no other choice, then your best bet would be to be honest to your prospective employer. Give your account of the event but never, ever blame it on your previous boss. This might only be the cause of further rifts between you and your past boss, and it might be viewed negatively by the interviewer.

If you’re reluctant to do any of the above-mentioned things, then you just might want to give credible references that won’t be questioned by the interviewer. Credible references is sometimes enough for a prospective employer to make his/her mind without further asking about your past employment.