Advice

Advice

Hi everyone. I am currently on leave of absence due to a broken leg. While I am healing my company whom I have worked for for 2 years is making crazy changes. Our never went through this January. While I am recovering they have demoted a lot of people, got rid of my boss, and it’s an all around mess.

In the meantime I am applying for jobs while I am recovering. I am so afraid to stay and think it would be crazy for me to do so. So when I go back and they ask why I’m leaving what should I say?

Why women love us:

  • Daily articles on career topics
  • Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
  • Advice and support from an authentic community
  • Events that help you level up in your career
  • Free membership, always

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

8 Comments

Join the conversation
  1. Mare Levine

    First of all, I am sorry to hear about the broken leg. I hope you are recovering well.

    Secondly, it sounds like quite a crazy situation at work. If you had to break a leg--this was the time to do it.

    You're absolutely doing the right thing to apply, apply, apply. Generally, you need a few weeks of applications in your job search pipeline before you start getting interviews, so the process can take a lot of time.

    I agree that it sounds like it would be crazy to stay, however, you need to make it work until you can safely transition to another job. This is where you need to channel a royal persona: even if you're shaking in your shoes, project confidence and self-assurance. When whomever is covering for your boss reaches out to you, be calm and professional.

    Example: "Yes, I noticed the changes. Please let me know where I can jump in and get started. I am eager to help the team through this transition."

    Rinse, repeat. Practice saying positive, team-focused lines that work for your position. If you're being told in person or on video, nod and look serious. Project that, "I am ready to do anything to help our company" vibes--and keep hunting unless things at your work settle down to where you feel safe to continue there.

    Good luck!

  2. Anonymous

    When it's time to go let them know you were recruited to something where there are interesting challenges that their company no longer affords you. Now heal heal!

  3. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    You are under no obligation to tell them why you're leaving. It's none of their business. If they ask and you want to provide an answer, you can say something generic like "I found a better opportunity" or "I was looking for a new challenge".

    You also don't have to tell them where you're going if you don't want to.

  4. Anonymous

    Before you do anything drastic, make sure you review your employee handbook about returning after medical leave. There may be some sort of clause about staying onboard X number of months due to insurance reimbursement so that you don't end up paying it all back to them.

  5. S.

    Let them know that during your time away recovering, you've had time to think about your career path and have been desiring something more aligned to your personal goals for the future. It was the right time and an opportunity presented itself.

  6. Anonymous

    Don't get too ahead of yourself. Wait for a great fit abd wonderful opportunity then and only then say you received a great offer that aligns with your career goals.

    Again, you have nothing to talk about yet.

  7. Anonymous

    1. Glad you are healing!

    2. Ensure you do return at least 1 day to ensure your medical coverage will be paid by your employer/insurance medical coverage. My loa was only valid if I returned to work on the day my physician cleared me in writing to return to work. I handed in my resignation the same day at end of shift with no notice (due to the horrid boss and team). I had secured my new job while I was on leave.

    3. Best of luck to you!

  8. Anonymous

    Always look. I hate to sound negative but no job is secure in the world today. Then again, if you di get a job elsewhere it is hard to predict if that will he a better environment. Good luck!

Fairygodboss VIP
Achieve your career goals.
Be part of the largest online career community for women to find jobs, advice, and support — for free.
Fairygodboss members