What's the recommendation if I left a horrible toxic job/abusive boss and only lasted 5 months at a job - do I keep it on my LI and my resume or remove it?

4 Comments

1. AnonymousMay 1,2024 at 8:28PM UTC

   That sounds similar to what I have experienced. I was fired from my position after only 3 months but kept it on my resume because I was also applying to jobs in different departments at the same university and others in the area. I struggled myself with taking the position off, but figured that the job would be on my internal workday file and would raise too many questions. I'm interested in hearing about this too. Leaving it on my resume may have held me back since it took over a year to find a job. Having to explain why I was in my last job for only 3 months was a bit of a struggle. Are you applying for similar positions now? Is your work experience strong enough that you can leave it off? I am so sorry your boss was awful, and I'm hoping you can take some time to heal and move on. Another reason to leave the position on your resume would be if you have someone at the company that could give a more positive reference and put it in context. Just brainstorming, and I wish you luck in finding a much better place!

2. Megan LeasherMay 2,2024 at 12:15PM UTC

   I support another comment already made; if the work experience is relevant to what you are seeking next (AND it's the only other thing on your resume that's relevant) keep it on. It will be a tough challenge to talk your way through it, but one you will feel strong about when you look back on how you found the honorable and accurate words to describe what you went through. Best of luck to you!

3. AnonymousMay 2,2024 at 1:19PM UTC

   I agree that it depends on job duties and the relevant skills for future opportunities. I do want to add another factor. How big of a gap does removing it make? if the gap is more than a year, it is best to leave it for a while and explain that it was an "interim position" to pay bills, followed by why the position you are applying/interviewing for is a good fit for your career goals and skills.

4. Eileen MMay 5,2024 at 2:40PM UTC

   Sorry you went through 5-months of toxic waste. Similar to others, I would assess if there were skills, projects, or experience gained that is valuable to reflect on the resume. If not, it's fine to leave a gap -- just make sure you don't use them as an example of a time you worked in a toxic environment in future interviews.