This is my first time in this community.

This is my first time in this community. I am trying to get out of my current company due to a toxic manager and lack of support from upper management. I am in B2B sales which is surprisingly a small community in my location. Any advice on interviewing and when asked why I’m leaving a company after nearly 13 yrs.

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  1. Chandra Larks

    Re-entering this workplace environment is odd now. They may not even ask this question. Be honest you are looking for place that allows you professional growth and diverse career path if you wanted it.

  2. Barb Hansen

    Why are you leaving your current job?

    "While my experience at Company XYZ has been invaluable in honing my B2B sales skills, I believe it's now time for me to seek new challenges and opportunities for growth. I'm looking for an environment that aligns with my aspirations and offers avenues for continuous professional development. I hold my time at Company XYZ in high regard, and I'm enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing my skills and expertise to a new team and organization."

  3. Colleen Dolak

    similar situation, though much shorter tenure. In this interview environment, I was surprised to learn that this is not the question often asked. Instead, interviewers are interested in statistics of performance and how that can be applied to them. Think more on What’s In It for Them, and be prepared with those answers.

    however, if asked- “I’m ready for new challenges.” Is always a good answer.

  4. Anonymous

    After 13 years you just want something new and fresh, and it's just time. Keep it simple. Don't discuss anything negative- no toxic boss, no lack of support.

    When you interview present your goals/quotas and how you met them consistently and what your strengths are with customers - building relationships, understanding their needs, generating new business, upselling, etc. Let the company know how well you learn new things and how you can come in and hit the ground running. You should have no problem with that legacy to get something new.

  5. Marcia Smith

    YES - this is great. Be sure to make a list of achievements based on quantitative data - numbers. Potential employers want to see what you have accomplished.

  6. Marcia Smith

    I agree - don't EVER say anything bad about your employer or boss. I say that my job may be eliminated soon - I mean...it COULD happen....

    Are there any networking opportunities like through the chamber of commerce? Are you looking for in-person or a remote job? all of this matters. In every job that I have had, I made sure to get reference letters - you can get them from your boss, peers, other managers, vendors, etc. Anyone that you have had a working relationship with.

  7. Anonymous

    Curious what is B2B mean? Toxicity seems to he an epidemic!

  8. Patricia

    Business-to-business (B2B) is a transaction or business conducted between one business and another, such as a wholesaler and retailer. B2B transactions tend to happen in the supply chain, where one company will purchase raw materials from another to be used in the manufacturing process.

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