Hello Seekers!

Jen

September 5,2022 at 6:42PM UTC

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Hello Seekers!

Seven months ago, I left a company where I had been for more than a decade as an account manager (handling mostly contract renewals, but some new business as well). I'm a single mom in my mid 40s.

Less than a week after leaving, I started a job at another company selling totally different products to a totally different market. It's also more of a "hunter" sales job focused on generating new business (whereas my strengths fall more under nurturing existing relationships) - I am definitely a "farmer" sales person! There are other aspects as well that make this job a very poor fit for me - most of the team is based in Europe, including my boss (I'm in the US); the health insurance has ended up being surprisingly terrible; and I'm getting the runaround about receiving my first commission payout (was supposed to happen in August, and now I'm being told it may not happen until November - doesn't do much for trust).

So I am planning to start looking for jobs again, which makes my heart very heavy (mainly b/c I don't know what to do, and would love to take a month-long break before the next job).

My question is: what should I say about my reason for leaving? Is it enough to say that it's not a good fit? Anything I should say that will make it sound reasonable to a future employer?

Thank you so much.

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JenSeptember 5,2022 at 7:06PM UTC
Thank you, Susan, for that perspective! That helps.
Barb HansenSeptember 5,2022 at 7:13PM UTC
Couple of options for you (from a hiring manager who won't be concerned if I heard these reasons:
1 - I'm looking for a position that fits my sales style.
2 - I'm looking to return to an account management role, as spending time in sales as shown me that I'm a better fit for that role.
Of course, you can say "not a good fit' but be prepared to explain why your last job wasn't a good fit - see my examples above ;)
JenSeptember 5,2022 at 9:21PM UTC
Thank you, Barb, this is helpful!
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistSeptember 6,2022 at 1:11AM UTC
YOU SAID:
"mainly b/c I don't know what to do"
I'm trying to understand specifically what you mean here. You just went through a job search 7 months ago. What is it you "don't know what to do"?
For a reason, you can start with "it wasn't the right fit" but be prepared with details if they drill down on why it wasn't the right fit.
JenSeptember 6,2022 at 1:17PM UTC
Thank you.... When I say I don't know what to do, I just mean I'm feeling a lack of confidence about what job I should pursue next. I'm really scared of making a mistake.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistSeptember 6,2022 at 5:24PM UTC
Please don't let this fear paralyze you. Analyze all your options and then make the decision you feel is best for you. But please don't let fear cloud your judgement.
When you accept a new position, you're not accepting a life sentence. Yes, you want it to be a good fit but not everything works out. You were able to find this most recent opportunity, you'll find another. If you take a new position and it's not what you'd hoped, don't be afraid to admit that to yourself and go and find something that's a better fit for you. Being afraid is not a reason to stay.
Read your post again - you know at least some of the reasons this job is not the right fit for you. That will help you in choosing your next one. You have specific issues to drill down on during the interview process starting with the kind of position - account manager vs sales - you should be applying for. Ask tons of questions.
Once you have all the facts you need to make a decision, go for it.
Please let me know if you have any questions. Good luck!
JenSeptember 6,2022 at 6:18PM UTC
Thank you, Joan! I really appreciate these reminders.
AnonymousSeptember 7,2022 at 4:28PM UTC
I feel that this is stating the obvious, but...
When you interview, please make sure to connect the dots. Emphasize how the role you are vying for has what your current role is missing and how your strengths (relationship building, e.g.), which are underutilized in your current role, are the right match for the opportunity.
Leslie MillsSeptember 9,2022 at 1:01PM UTC
Good morning.
You need to work for an organization that utilizes your exceptional skills and encourages your personal growth. That was your reason for trusting your present employer. The projected delays in commission payouts immediately raises a Red Flag. I have found that often the realities of a job are "not as advertised".
If you believe that you may overcome your initial discomfort with the reality of this job, give it another try. Otherwise, leave NOW before your indecision results in your working in a job you dislike. Nothing is more frustrating and results in growing resentment. I know, I was once in the same position.
As you suggested, tell your present employer that the job is not a good fit, which is sufficient explanation.
Not to worry-it is illegal for a former employer the discuss you beyond your length of employment.
I personally, I would do what you propose to do.
Don't settle. You can find an organization that values your skills and considers you an ASSET. I know you can do it.
Go, girl!
Best wishes,
Leslie
JenSeptember 13,2022 at 6:31PM UTC
Thank you so much, Leslie! I really appreciate your encouraging words and perspective.
Leslie MillsSeptember 14,2022 at 1:31PM UTC
Thank you, Jen!
leslie
AnonymousSeptember 10,2022 at 11:03PM UTC
Given today’s job market and employee’s focus on work/life balance & cultural fit, you can absolutely say “not a good fit “. It’s very common for jobs to not turn out the way they were “sold” to us. I’m in a similar boat being under hired in a huge corporate environment…
JenSeptember 13,2022 at 6:14PM UTC
Thank you, that is affirming! Hope you are able to find a better fit, too.