I have gotten fed up with the environment of my controlling, toxic, misogynistic job and am looking for a new one.

Anonymous

March 16,2023 at 11:59PM UTC

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I have gotten fed up with the environment of my controlling, toxic, misogynistic job and am looking for a new one. The idea of spending more time in that place makes me physically ill. THAT is how bad it has gotten. So now I'm struggling to find a new job that is more tolerable but I'm always stumped by the question "Why did you leave your last job?". Everyone knows the truthful answer of because I hated it and all my co-workers so much the idea of spending any more time with them then I absolutely HAD to made me sick to my stomach. So how do I avoid letting my feelings show and remain at least neutrally non-negative when answering this question or any others about my position with my former company.

At my present job there are a handful of female employees that I can count on one hand and I wouldn't even have to use my thumb. My desk is placed in the coldest part of the building directly under a vent that blows cold air year round...even when it's 15 degrees outside. I've been there almost a year and they still have not given me a name tag for my cubicle but the 2 new male trainees (seated in the warmer area) that have been on the floor less then 2 weeks have theirs. I can't make a move without having to ask permission from the leadership team for everything I have to do regardless of what it is. No matter what I do or how many tickets I crank out my stats are always the lowest on the floor. Lower even then the 2 new trainees who barely touch any of the tickets. If I go to my supervisor with any discrepancies he puffs out his chest, folds his arms over it, then spits out the words at me "PROVE IT! I want dates, times, and examples." Meanwhile one of my male co-workers go to him with a vague issue and he's pulling me into his office for a "discussion". When I go to work I hunker down at my desk, stay as quiet as possible to avoid drawing attention, and only ask questions when I absolutely HAVE TO. For my breaks I go from my desk to the women's restroom (of which there is only 1 while the men have 2) and back. I spend my lunch in my car then leave at the end of the day without speaking to anyone. It is THAT bad. How can I put a positive spin on any of that when interviewing for a new job with a different company?

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AnonymousMarch 17,2023 at 12:33AM UTC
You're on the right track here, knowing that it's best not to discuss how much you hated your old job when looking for a new one. It does seem like a very poor fit and it makes sense that you are looking for a new opportunity.
You don't have to go into exquisite details at all. Say something like: "I learned xxx at my previous job, am ready to move forward and take on new challenges, and am excited to apply my skills and experience toward helping your organization achieve xxx goals.
MislynMarch 17,2023 at 2:52AM UTC
I hear exactly what you mean. I was at a job for two years that absolutely sucked the life out of me. My boss was a complete a$$hole. He recruited me from another job and he really charmed me. He let on like we were the perfect team and I was making his life so much better by taking the job. I liked my job at first then I realized he was a back stabber that talked and complained about me behind my back to the other owner. Like it wasn’t going to get back to me. I really like the other owner. My boss would manipulate me-and gaslight me everyday by acting like I was just the best thing that ever happened to the company. He would always tell me how great we worked together and how I was so good at my job. He treated all his employees and his business partner like they were stupid and he was the only smartest person there. Not sure why I thought I was any different. He was so full of himself. I worked in the office by myself and he was the only person there with me. He would laugh and tease with me all day then I would find out he was saying I was lazy and unreliable. I truly thought we had a great relationship and that we enjoyed being around each other but, I overheard conversations about me that made me furious. I did everything at that place. He did absolutely nothing but run around and have people at the office visiting. I knew I was done making that guy money. I got out and his partner is ready to do the same thing. Always know your worth and don’t let your boss bring you down. Just tell them at your interviews that the job wasn’t a good fit for you and that you left on good terms and nothing should ever be questioned. I had several interviews and that’s pretty much what I told them all and no questions were ever asked. I have a new job now and I’m finally happy. I’ve heard my old boss on the other hand is not and that makes me giggle everytime I hear how much he misses me being there. Best of luck in the job hunt.
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 4:04PM UTC
Your old boss sounds exactly like mine. lol Could be his twin. Happy to hear about your successful transition to a company that appreciates you more. Gives me hope of finding one of my own. :)
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 2:48AM UTC
Are you sure he’s not happy? Sounds like maybe he wanted you gone if he’s telling the other owner he’s not happy with your work ethic . Just saying if your happy that’s great but I feel you were being weeded out.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 2:50AM UTC
Good for you. I’ve had that kind of boss and I’m glad you moved on.
AnonymousMarch 17,2023 at 3:18AM UTC
You don't go into any detail at all. You simply say the job is not at fit. You say you are looking for your next challenge. While you enjoyed your last job you were not challenged.
AnonymousMarch 17,2023 at 7:12AM UTC
Not sure if you are still at the post and looking for other work and attending interviews. This is always the best way if you can stick it out (not always possible and you MUST put your own mental health first) If you are and get asked the question "why are you wanting to leave your current role" don't make it about your old job. Frame as how much of an amazing opportunity the role they are offering is that you couldn't not apply for it. Eg while I'm happy in my current role I couldn't miss the amazing opportunity you're offering. You could even say you were sent the job posting by a friend who was job searching and thought you'd be a great fit. Like a love story ? I wasn't looking but somehow I found you. All companies like to hear how great they are to work for and what they have to offer. If you make this the main focus they will come away with a positive experience from you. Most people (including at a job interview) don't remember the actual words you say. people just remember your tone and attitude and that's how they frame their opinion of you. Be enthusiastic about this new amazing opportunity and you'll smash it. I've just been through a very similar experience myself (working in a toxic environment) and it was hideous. Do get yourself some emotional support as well if you can. Even if it's just podcasts and reading self help books etc. Being in a toxic environment leaves a residue which can come to the surface once you're actually away from the situation and in a safe enough space to process the harm done. They don't deserve to live in your head rent free, get help to evict them and change the locks. You deserve a new start. You deserve to be happy. You deserve to be appreciated and valued. Good luck and take care of you.
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 4:18PM UTC
I like the take on this. Diverting the focus off my past job and putting it on the new one while giving the minimum answer. It's perfect. It will enable me to maintain a positive aspect without having to go into detail about a not so positive situation. Perfect! Thank you, Angela. You've given a valuable tool to use.
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 4:42PM UTC
This has helped me so much! A past job has been living rent free in my head for years. Although I have moved on, I totally torpedoed an interview due to my negative mindset while still working for that company. Great advice!
Crystal HowellMarch 17,2023 at 10:38AM UTC
Contact eeoc or human rights attorney , or OSHA, things will change.
AnonymousMarch 17,2023 at 1:56PM UTC
It’s so interesting that this question can be a make or break a job offer and yet as a recruiter people blatantly lie because it’s really a ridiculous question when you think about it ,why is the question relevant to your knowledge, skills and ability to do the job you’re applying for, it’s somewhat invasive.Some of the answers that I did like, although I didn’t judge at all because I know why I left jobs and couldn’t tell the truth simply because people read into your answer no matter what, sad as that is.The judgment is so subjective for what you might say in my opinion, makes it a possible false perception.Many companies today are turning people down for jobs, because they felt like they were not a cultural fit,However, should you say you didn’t feel like a cultural fit? It would beg the question why and then you’d have to expand on your answer. yet they’re judging you on a cultural fit for their company. The truth is not acceptable in the world we live in people believe a lie before they believe the truth, bottom line is the environment was not conducive to you being a productive happy employee for many reasons, but I would read all the comments here because maybe someone does have the perfect answer.
my recruiting mantra there is a lid for every pot, but finding it can be very challenging. You have to be persistent and just keep looking till it feels right. Good luck.
AnonymousMarch 17,2023 at 1:59PM UTC
As for the question about what to say about why you are leaving, the truth without saying anything disparaging about your company, boss, or coworkers always works best. You can keep a straight face without wincing that way. A simple "I am looking for a role that will challenge me and is more in line with my career goals of ...) is generally true in most circumstances and benign on the snarky response. Ensure that the specific career goals relate to the job you are applying for.
As for the discrepancies in your work accomplishments, it is time to start keeping a ledger of times, tickets, and issues/clients. If you use an electronic ticketing system, you may be able to pull up a summary of what you have done from there (sometimes, this is only given to the managers). Then hand him your "proof" and ask him to prove you're not (although, due to the good old boy's network where you work, this may backfire badly, so I would suggest doing it on the way out, and just before you see an employment attorney).
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 4:26PM UTC
I will definitely add your advice to my arsenal and thank you for your input. As for the second part, I have actually had to do that and when presented with his "proof" he takes it, says, "I'll look into this." Then I hear nothing back and nothing changes except things become even more hostile. Yesterday I over heard one of my co-workers talking to a group of his cronies over my cubicle wall. He was saying how you could take food of some sort, chips, popcorn, etc and scatter it around a car in the parking lot to attract all the birds in that area to that car so they crap all over it while feasting on the food surrounding it and that if you do this repeatedly all the birds will associate that car with food and be drawn to it no matter where it's parked in the lot and will crap all over it still. When I went to lunch there was popcorn on the ground around my car. I don't think it had been there long because there were only a couple of birds pecking at it and only a spot or 2 of bird crap. I moved my car immediately and there was another car in that spot when i came back from lunch.
fduntvMarch 19,2023 at 12:37PM UTC
That sounds like abusive behavior! get out soon, away from these people. There are men who hate women simply because they’re women.
Lisa GoldenMarch 17,2023 at 3:08PM UTC
You could always say you left because you were looking for a better opportunity.
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 8:59PM UTC
I understand the desire to vent about bad crap at work, but you've already decided to move on, so I would focus on the future not the past. When asked, turn your answer into a povisite. Nothing wrong with saying the role changed over time and was no longer a food fit for your career aspirations (or skill set or whatever) and then say something very positive about yourself that relates to the position a new company is hiring for. use EVERY QUESTION in an interview to reiterate why you are the right hire for this job. There are no 2nd chances to answer the questions they ask. Practice, role play with someone. And def NEVER complain--no one values that kind of 'honesty. They wil only think: boy, i wonder if she'd talk about company that way if things don't work out. Go9od luck to you.
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 9:00PM UTC
sorry about the typing: this site has tremendous lag for me and I don't see what I type 'til I hit post
AnonymousMarch 18,2023 at 10:42PM UTC
Say the values don’t align with yours and you want to grow , period
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 12:19PM UTC
Because you had caregiving responsibilities...
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 1:15PM UTC
It’s never a good idea to be dishonest, especially on a job interview. There is a lot of really good advice from others, I would focus more on what appeals to you about the position you’re interviewing for.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 12:24PM UTC
Don't focus on why you're leaving that job but try to focus on why you're excited about the current role/company you're applying for....
Molly GreenwoodMarch 19,2023 at 12:28PM UTC
Do you realize how fucking nuts people are?!? This world is so beautiful and people go around all day fucking it up. And it’s so completely unnecessary
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 6:02PM UTC
You're exactly right. Work at all these places is like a war zone, domestic violence ( bullying), and junior fucking high dynamics.
fduntvMarch 19,2023 at 12:32PM UTC
The new company may ask, “why are you interested in working here?”Even if they ask “why are you leaving your last job” think of answers to the first question. Model answers around your need to seek new opportunities, growth, etc.
Debbie WilliamsonMarch 19,2023 at 12:34PM UTC
Keep it positive and simple. Concentrate on the desire to contribute and expand, seeking more balance, name something that you think you are strong in and the wish to build on that.
RachelMarch 19,2023 at 12:38PM UTC
Practice practice practice. I hated one of my previous jobs. O told the truth but I practiced what I would say. "I found out while working there that the job I had was not for me. The job was compartmentalized and I didn't have the freedom to do the job to the best of my ability. Ultimately, the culture just wasn't the greatest either".
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 12:54PM UTC
Brush up on your acting skills on this one. Been there-done that. Keep it brief. Then focus on what good you can say. Never never ever say anything bad about any one. I know it’s hard. Trust me I know. There are better places out there, they can be found. It took me about 6 months to find another entry level job in healthcare due to so many being toxic. I know and see the challenges of this new one. Because there will always be that one person who’s a total jerk. Lately more than one for most of us… either grey rock or be so sweet to them. Lol. I usually go back and forth. Interviews do not last forever. Once you’re in, keep questions brief. Never say anything at work that can be used against you. Never show weakness. There is always someone ready to use it against you. And it can be anyone. Even that seemingly nice new co worker who is so nice to you but as soon as you turn your back she is bad mouthing to you everyone.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 1:05PM UTC
Hi there, so sorry to hear about this. I am in a very similar situation, and have spoken with our organization's ombudsman about it. He advised me to try an in-person conversation with one of the non-senior people involved. That conversation is scheduled for next week. I am going to try to walk on a tightrope, balancing between being constructive, helpful, but non-threatening.
In the meantime I am so sorry about your situation. It is grueling, and does need a change. Hoping you have substantual personal support outside work.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 1:21PM UTC
Just say you have run out of growth opportunities at your current employer. The truth is the interviewer is just trying to see if you are mature enough not to bad mouth your present employer; they don't really care why you are leaving.
Elisabeth RochaMarch 19,2023 at 1:21PM UTC
I feel for you, I have been trying to find a different opportunity as well and my reason for leaving is similar. I have practiced answering this question with my sister (yes, she’s family but we think in a completely opposite way so she can give me an outside perspective). I try to frame it in a way that leads to conversation/answer to focus on my successes in this role and how I have accomplished what I can for this organization in my current role and am looking to grow beyond the potential limitations of my span of control and really leverage my insight and skill set to add value at a higher lever :)
TomBooleyMarch 19,2023 at 1:31PM UTC
I don’t understand the problem with being honest about how horrible a current employer is. It’s the truth after all. It’s normal to want to improve one’s work environment.
JulieMarch 19,2023 at 1:48PM UTC
It isn’t a good fit. I’ve been there a while and am looking for advancement
Fran SarrelMarch 19,2023 at 1:48PM UTC
“Opportunities for advancement are very limited.“
Carvella HudsonMarch 19,2023 at 1:52PM UTC
The best way to answer that question is, "I am looking for more challenges that will allow me to utilize my skills to the highest potential. Never downgrade or speak negatively about your last employer, NEVER!
Beth Whight MoralesMarch 19,2023 at 1:55PM UTC
Take what you do well there and use it a starting point. For example “I currently address and resolve x number of tickets a week, but now I’m looking for a position where I can use the knowledge I’ve gained and apply it to projects…” so on and so forth. Your current company doesn’t have the openings you need for growth (this is true) and therefore you need to seek opportunities for growth elsewhere.
It’s a typical answer and anyone with significant interviewing experience will at least be aware that your current company may be horrible, but you are professional about it and therefore a good asset.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 1:57PM UTC
I sought to expand creatively and explore new markets.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 2:37PM UTC
Growth that is all they need to know. You have researched their company and align with your values and for growth.
I would also recommend therapy or a least time off before you begin your next job, just so you do not take any residual negative feelings to the next environment.
Nylonthread StringMarch 19,2023 at 2:39PM UTC
I agree with leaving your comments at “I was thankful for the learning experience, but there were limited opportunities for advancement.”
If you do go off on your old employer, it may feel cathartic, but you won’t get a call back. I learned this as a recent college grad with a couple of temp jobs under my belt… I started ranting about my current (very awful & toxic) employer, and the interviewers went along with it, with “what happened next?” And “wow, then what?” I realized later that I was just a source of entertainment for them and not a potential employee. At least I can look back and laugh about it!
Susan JaneczekMarch 19,2023 at 3:24PM UTC
I have been in this situation and I know what you are going through.I had 2 jobs that I hated in my career So here is my advice to you ….if you can quit what you say to the new companies is that it wasn’t a cultural fit and leave it at that. If you say more than this, it may come across as a complaining person and you won’t get the new job. So you say it wasn’t a cultural fit, you give a couple references from the job, and then you focus on how you’re going to exceed the goals of the new job where you are applying.
if you can’t quit, and this is tough, but I know you can do it, and I wish somebody told me this…..you need to change the stories in your head
So what if it’s a misgynomy culture, so what if you don’t have a name tag, so what if you’re under the air conditioner…… all these things are not a big deal, all you want is a paycheck, A reference, and a new job,
you need to go in tomorrow and act like you’re starting a new position. Try listening to positive meditations, just five minute meditations, twice a day, try writing a list of what went right every day at close of business and make sure you have your work plan for the next day before you leave your desk the night before. This is not going to turn around in one day or one week but eventually it will work.you also need to have a positive attitude for everything. And if what you’re saying is not positive bite your tongue and don’t say anything. If you get any obnoxious emails from someone, set up a time to meet with your boss for five minutes and go over how to handle it.
it sounds like you and your boss are not on the same page. And that happens and it’s hard to change but you can do it. For this week and go in and just focus on your job, you say hi to anybody you see, be positive, not one negative comment, say hi to your boss, stay positive about everything and then the end of the week or early next week, you meet with your boss but You don’t just walk in his office. You schedule a meeting with the agenda. And the agenda is 1) my accomplishments this week and 2)what can i do better next week? Be Extremely positive and not defensive when he gives you a Feedback, do not interrupt him, do not be defensive, listen, be very professional. This will be tough. you need to say thank you and at the end of the meeting, you need to take his advice whether you agree or not and you need to try to do a better job the following week. You can continue the weekly scheduled meetings. Again, this is not easy but if you need this paycheck you can do it. . If you do this for two months it will turn around. But it is tough.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 7:51PM UTC
True. You can't change the environment that you work in. You can only change you.
After having gone through a "life changing" experience at my most recent job, I am on short term disability for PTDS (and affective disorder) and dealing with me and how I handle work situations. I will be returning to work soon and have the backing of my medical support team who has said that the work environment is hostile but on paper will say, "this person will not thrive in this position." Take care of yourself, try to let go of the negativity and stay positive about your future.
MislynMarch 21,2023 at 8:19PM UTC
You got short term disability because of your hostile working environment? That’s very interesting because my last job caused me to have a constant stomach ache and my nerves were always on edge. I would be so stressed I would cry at work. Always afraid I would do something wrong or my boss thinking I was doing something I wasn’t supposed to be doing on work time. I had to constantly walk on eggshells around him unless he was in the mood to sit and tell stories and laugh. I swear he was bi-polar because one minute he was great the next he was trying to make me cry. That is a toxic work environment. Any man that make a female employee cry has a problem with themself.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 4:05PM UTC
I have worked for multiple places like this over the past couple of years. Tell your new employer you’re looking for professional growth. That’s my answer every time.
Lisa MarieMarch 19,2023 at 4:39PM UTC
Your description of the environment makes me shiver.
Needless to say, a truthful response is always best. You don't and won't have to fake any reactions or feelings when you're literally speaking the truth.
I'm are not comfortable working there.
I don't feel appreciated working there.
I don't see a path for growth there.
Etc.
Those are simple sentences that speaks to some of the things you said in your post.... which would be the truth, so hopefully you are able to remain neutral while speaking any of those truths... as uncomfortable as they are.
Trying speaking those out loud in fron of a mirror and concentrate on your facial expressions and tone.
Keep your head and chin up. Don't let ANYONE no matter their gender, cause you to retreat into yourself, and most important... keep being productive! When they speak negatively about your output... let it be a lie.
Good luck!
Veronica NikkiMarch 19,2023 at 5:08PM UTC
Never ever say negative things about a job you left. Focus on reasons like career growth and interest in a more exciting industry. Tailor this for the position/ company.
Cheryl Naasko PoundsMarch 19,2023 at 6:51PM UTC
Always put a positive spin on the crummy reasons why you are looking to leave your current position; "I am looking for growth and welcome the challenges I see outside of my current position. I've researched your company and see a natural next step", etc. Then save your real bitching for when you're with your girlfriends having a wine night.
Nancy BauerMarch 19,2023 at 9:06PM UTC
Never burn a bridge, because you never know.
Your situation sounds untenable and I feel for you. That said, when you are asked why you are leaving your best bet is to let it go and well, lie. Keep your response neutral, such as "I am looking to grow in my career and I didn't see a path forward," or "I'm looking for new challenges," etc. Play the B.S. game and don't say a word about what a bunch of misogynistic jerks you are trying to leave behind.
AnonymousMarch 19,2023 at 10:15PM UTC
Although I am grateful for the opportunity at company XYZ and have learned a lot. There has been a cultural shift that does not align with my core values. I am looking for a company that has the following…. When doing my research on your company, I read your mission is 123, this is why I applied for the position here.
Bernadette M MartinezMarch 20,2023 at 4:25AM UTC
THIS! Excellent way to frame it without sounding too negative. If it shifted and it just wasn't a fit anymore, it shifted. Everyone understands things and roles change.
Janet ParkhurstMarch 20,2023 at 4:00AM UTC
First of all, I'm so sorry you are enduring such a horrible work climate. You've given it almost a year and, at this point, there's no sign of improvement.If it were me, I'd ride it out til the end of the current pay period, and then gather up my things and just leave. No notice. No nothing. Above all, none of the well-intended, but stomach-turning suggestions as to scheduling a meeting with that ass of a boss and/or seeking ways to "improve" the job. You can't shine shit. You'd just be setting yourself up for more abuse and leave feeling like a real schmuck. You need empowerment, and the only way to get that is to set yourself free. Take a week...two, even. Let yourself breathe and even out. Then, when you are more psychologically adjusted, start the interviewing process. I know, it's highly preferable to look for a job when you have one, but this one is making you sick and you won't interview well. I know the feeling. I've been there. Hollowed out eyes, unexplained exhaustion and not a hint of the real "you" remaining. So, get out NOW. Take a break. Life is too short. And your health--both physical and emotional--are too precious to ruin working in a hell hole like that. Oh! What to say to your future employer? I'd tell the truth. You loved what you did, but the environment was toxic. Or, you can simply say, "It wasn't a fit." Best of luck!!!!
AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 4:32AM UTC
While I agree that this is a terrible situtation, I have been in a similar situation before. And at that point when I "just couldn't stand it anymore" quit out of rage about a particular issue. Looking at it in hindsight, it may have been smarter, to involve someone from Fairwork, to cause a bit more turmoil before leaving this toxic Managing Director in a small to medium sized enterprise where no HR was present. I managed to find a contract job very quickly but it wasn't an ideal position and thus, I moved on to another permanent position that seemed better, before eventually finding my current position of 2 years, where I am very happy. I just want to say that, it could have turned out worse and I was lucky to be called by a headhunter for my current position but strategically, it may be smarter to stay in your current position until you find a better one. There are also other options such as extended medical leave etc. if you need some time off looking for the new position. Hope that helps!
AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 10:38AM UTC
I have done something similar to your suggestion. I was fortuneate to have a medical doctor who said, "don't quit" which set a light bulb off in my head to try to figure out something else. As toxic as my immediate work environment was, there were other routes in this very large organization to pursue. And yes, HR should be and needs to be informed even if it ends up not going anywhere (time will tell). I am in the middle of starting a new job search in the same company and on S/T disability while doing so. (I am officially diagnosed with PTSD.) A game changer.
AnonymousMarch 24,2023 at 1:34AM UTC
Funny you should mention PTSD. After over 20 years working contract jobs where they ended abruptly with no reason or explanation given, I suffer from it as well. I mentioned this to my current supervisor and he asked how long I'd been in the military. I told him I'd never served and he scoffed stating that there was no way I could possibly be suffering from it then. He seemed to think that only suffering a great deal of physical pain brings on PTSD and told me to stop making things up.
Kimberly AnneMarch 26,2023 at 2:00PM UTC
I had to do this. And I agree and love this post. I had to walk away from a job I really enjoyed however it was the toxicity not the work itself. It’s almost always the people not the work that is why most of us leave. And yes just don’t go back. It’s not worth it sometimes.
AnonymousMarch 21,2023 at 10:56AM UTC
I understand your frustration, as well as your concern over coming off speaking negatively about your current employer in an interview (many articles point to this being an interview "no-no", as the interviewer could start to wonder if you'd speak negatively about their company, too, if you left).As far as putting a neutral, non-negative spin on why you are leaving, you could simply say that the position is not a fit with what you are looking for and what you previously thought it would be, and that you are looking to grow professionally.
AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 10:34AM UTC
I had previously posted and came back and just realized that you said that "you are looking for a new one". I hope that wasn't a similar toxic job! I have been there too many times and recently realized that I was unconsicously accepting positions that I was accustomed to. Many of them were toxic. Part of the solution, I am learning, is that I have to practice more self reflection and "control" as to how I respond to my environment and what I do with it. Processing your environment is a way to deal with what you have right now (good or bad). And, if you had to leave... which I did for mental health reasons, it was not a good fit. (I never felt comfortable in that work environment, couldn't use the break room, didn't eat during my 12 hour shifts...)
Susan NicoleMarch 22,2023 at 3:05PM UTC
Learn to stand tall, even before you leave. You know who you are.
If I were interviewing you for the new job, and asked you why you left your last job, I would respect you most for telling the truth, that it wasn’t a good fit. If I ask you to tell me more about that, emphasize to me that you were uncomfortable with the management style. Employers know about post-covid uncertainty. Attitudes lack humanity. Let the interviewer know that YOU are determined to build back better. Prepare ahead of time to tell how you would do that in the new company.Let the interviewer know in what management style you thrive and can do most for the company.
AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 9:42PM UTC
Great advice!