Stuck in a catch 22 situation in need of advice?

[Anonymous]

Resign from a job recently that I only lasted a month & didn't feel comfortable in, not sure whether to include it on my CV or risk having a tax increase from HR. Plus I don't know if it will put off a potential new employer because of it?

[Oliverlogan263]

Man that's super frustrating. Here's what I would do:

- Don't put it on your CV/resume. Only list jobs you've been at 6 months or more usually. A one month role won't help you and could raise questions.

- If asked in an interview about job history, be honest but frame it positively. "I took a role but quickly realized it wasn't the right cultural fit. I'm looking for X, Y, Z in my next opportunity." Make it about learning what you want, not bailing.

- For taxes/HR, talk to an accountant. Could you get a note from your doctor saying you experienced stress/anxiety at that job? Might help show it wasn't just quitting.

- Focus your CV on longer jobs and skills. Don't leave a gap, list any freelance projects or volunteering you did in the interim.

- During interviews, steer convo to your relevant qualifications, not short past jobs. You want them thinking how you add value to them, not doubting you'll stick around.

I think as long as you address it honestly if asked but don't highlight it, you should be alright dude. And don't stress - one month isn't that bad. You've got this!

[Asker]

Won't they know when I give my p45 over to them? I fi don't mention it on CV.

[Oliverlogan263]

Yeah good point bro, the P45 is probably gonna show that last month of work. A few options:

- If you leave it off the CV, be prepared that they may notice the date gap and ask about it in the interview.

- You can leave it on and emphasize the transferable skills as you sell yourself, rather than the short time there.

- Another idea is to list it but put the dates as "January - Present" if you were only there in January. Then if they bring it up, be honest it wasn't a good fit.

- Worst case, hopefully one month isn't a major red flag as long as your other jobs show more longevity.

- And HR probably won't pull your tax info or pay too close attention to a short stint.

I'd say weigh up leaving it on/off based on the specific role and how easy it is to spin it positively if asked. You got this man, stay confident in the interview that you've learned and are ready for the right company now. Let me know how it goes!

[butterly248]

This is good advice!

[Asker]

Neither of them came back to me after the interview even tho they said they would regardless via phonecall if I got the job or not.

[Oliverlogan263]

Aw man, that really sucks they didn't get back to you after saying they would. Interviews can be such a mindgame sometimes. A couple thoughts on what might've happened:

1. They could've ended up going with another candidate who was a slightly better fit on paper or in the interview. Sucks, but it happens.

2. Something could've come up on their end - maybe the hiring process got delayed, they went on vacation, etc. Still lame they didn't follow up like they said though.

3. Possibly they realized after you left that you overqualified for the role or might leave for something better soon. Some companies want folks they can keep longterm.

Regardless of why, it was uncool of them not to follow up as promised. I wouldn't take it too personally - there's always an element of chance in interviews. Just gotta keep at it. Maybe send a polite follow up email thanking them for their time and seeing if they have any other feedback, but then focus your energy on new opportunities. You'll nail the next one bro, don't sweat these jabronis!

[Asker]

One of the companies came back to me but gave me rude feedback.

[Oliverlogan263]

Ah that's wack dude, who do they think they are giving rude feedback? Like did they expect you to kiss their feet or something? Clearly they got some issues over there if that's how they talk to people. Screw that noise man, you're better off without working for jerks like that. Their loss! Don't let it get you down - some people just like putting others down to make themselves feel big. You held your own in the interview and that's all that matters. On to bigger and better things my guy, someone will see how cool you are real soon. Their rude words don't define you. Keep shining!

[butterly248]

Tell them the truth, but it didn't work out. What job was it for? Retail?

[Asker]

Exactly that 😅

[butterly248]

Oh, just say it was temp/seasonal or till them the truth

[butterly248]

But put it down either way

[Asker]

What can I say during an interview?

[butterly248]

That is a temp job, or it didn't work out. Google or reddit, maybe it's better to get advice. lol sorry

[Asker]

Will they find out if I said it was a temp or seasonal job?

[butterly248]

I don't think so tbh

[Asker]

Do they just ask for start & finish date

[butterly248]

Well, just say the month. Like October to September for example

[butterly248]

And then the year