how do I explain leaving my last position?

Anonymous

February 25,2022 at 7:13AM UTC

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how do I explain leaving my last position? I was only there a short while, and I left due to seeing so many unethical behaviors ( I'm an associate therapist, which means I could have my intern number revoked if my supervisor decided to report me, basically I left because I did not feel safe ( I worked in a crisis residential treatment for mentally ill) and I just couldn't put up with the fraud I saw, the mistreatment of some clients. etc.. lots happened, it got overwhelming, I got burned out, and I had no support from my supervisor. Employees fled that place. I didn't quit, but after two clients nearly attacked each other, and I was expected to de escalate, I asked them provide me a safety policy and protocols before I would return to work.

So long story short, how do I explain that in a nutshell. I know insurance fraud when I see it. I didn't participate, and I did report it after I left to Medi-cal.

My question is, how do I tactfully and quickly answer the reason I left my last job, that seems to be the first question i GET Asked at my interviews, it seems they are more interested in that than knowing my other qualifications. And when I say that I want to work at a site that provided ethical treatment, and that I want clinical case consultation ( another requirement by law) I notice i get a lot of resistance from the interviewer. I can't lie, but I don't feel like i SHOULD HAVe to provide some long winded story if it's just going to back fire on me?

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Julie Chatman, MBA, CISMFebruary 25,2022 at 9:33AM UTC
“I decided it was an ideal time to pivot to an organization which more aligns with my values and professional goals - which is why I’m excited about the role in this organization.”
AnonymousFebruary 25,2022 at 6:58PM UTC
Wow, I really like that, no wiggle room in that response!
Thank you very much Julie!
Julie Chatman, MBA, CISMMay 28,2022 at 2:09PM UTC
You’re very welcome. Good luck!
AnonymousApril 16,2022 at 1:39PM UTC
It wasn't a good fit usually works.
Working somewhere isn't just about you serving them. It should fit your life and values too.
Joanna GiordanoMay 2,2022 at 8:04PM UTC
don't explain! I've been there. (left somewhere after absurdly short amount of time. months actually. because i felt uncomfortable and was getting burnt)
frame it as you making a good decision because you realized it quickly. I like the comment about "not a good fit" or "i'm excited about this role". Once you land the job, then you can make friends and tell them your war stories. Interviewers and future employers can only really ask basic Qs such as did you work at ABC company and what were the dates of employment. Occasionally, level may be verified, but you don't owe any more than that.
Keep those cards close to the chest and hide your pain for at least the duration of the interview.