I am having an issue on how to explain my recent gap in unemployment.

Christine H

October 25,2022 at 5:48PM UTC

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I am having an issue on how to explain my recent gap in unemployment. I was let go from the previous position due to a miscommunication with a patient and how the provider wanted it handled. How do I explain to situation during an interview or put on an application for "reason for leaving" . I feel that I was not given an opportunity to be able to show that I could be an asset to the company if given another opportunity to continue with my position. I do have 2 interviews scheduled this week, so being able to give a great answer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

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Amalie BishopOctober 25,2022 at 6:22PM UTC
This may not be the best advice, but if it were me, on an application, I would just write "Communication issues, will explain further during interview." (It's vague, but honest)
During the actual interview I would be honest and explain my reasoning and actions but also convey what I understood the provider's perspective might have been in hindsight, in order to respect for their side, but also defend my own in how it was a true misunderstanding of expectations. I wish you all the best!
AnonymousOctober 26,2022 at 12:30PM UTC
Honesty is not always the best policy because information can be interpreted in ways that are outside our control. For example, a communication issue response may lead the employer to wonder if similar communication issues may continue in a new role and if that may pose a risk to the provider and the hospital system. Despite saying what she learned they may still wonder.
Maggie StoneOctober 26,2022 at 12:57PM UTC
I agree.
I wouldn’t phrase it as communication issues because that could be interpreted as a conflict that couldn’t be resolved. If this position was brief, leave it off your resume. Probably best to leave it at not a good fit. But whatever you choose to tell them make sure it feels authentic and makes sense, or your body language and tone may come across as defensive or you are trying to cover something up. I think it’s more about how you say it, than what was said.
AnonymousOctober 25,2022 at 11:44PM UTC
You could say it was a mutual decision to separate or part ways.
DianaOctober 26,2022 at 12:50PM UTC
Another idea could be to change your resume to be experienced-focused and not provide dates. I just updated my daughter's resume, and she, too, had gaps - all covided-related. So I changed it - wrote all about her experiences in different areas - and WOW, what a big different. It worked for her. It might not be for everyone.
AnonymousOctober 26,2022 at 1:02PM UTC
You can use phrases like it wasn't a good fit. It was clear there was no room for advancement. Company values were not a match with yours. I'm passionate about X and the organization could not offer me the opportunity to X. Keep it simple. Don't over explain.
Shelly EdwardsOctober 26,2022 at 7:21PM UTC
I would explain the situation to the best of your ability, but then immediately follow it up with what you learned from that experience and how you would handle it better in a future position. Focus less on the mistake that cost you your job and focus more on the lessons learned.