Dear Evil HR Lady,
How do I get past a recruiter who wants to know the truth about why I left my last job?
I spent seven years at a Fortune 500 company. I had a good career there. I was promoted twice and was in my last position for more than two years. I was fired for having an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate. (I hope you appreciate the use of HR jargon there.) I knew that it was wrong, against company policy, and what the consequences would likely be if it were discovered. Ultimately, the relationship was reported to HR and I was fired. Since then, I have gone back to school and just recently earned an MBA.
Now I’ve graduated and I’m back in the job market. I am finding that I can’t get past the recruiter’s screening interview when I tell the truth about why I left my last job. With others, I have led them to the conclusion that I was laid off. (Although I did not actually lie, I did intentionally lead them to the wrong conclusion). Of course I haven’t gotten any of those jobs either. My fear is that companies are able to find out the real reason for my dismissal through an employment verification. I don’t want to lie, but I fear it is my only hope at finding another decent job.
Are recruiters willing to give someone a second chance? Do you have any advice on how to approach this?
To read the answer click here: What to do if you’ve been fired for an ethical violation
Can you explain what you mean by an individual contributor job? Thanks!
An individual contributor job is one where you don’t manage other people.