Should I Disclose My Situation? (UK)
I started working as an Account Manager for a tech company in January 2024, and I initially loved it. However, things took a turn about six months in when my territory was eliminated in July 2024, just seven months after I joined.
Around that time, I was approached by a small startup and decided to explore the opportunity. From our initial conversations, it seemed like a fantastic fit! The mission was inspiring, the schedule was appealing, the pay was competitive, and the team was great. I was thrilled and made the switch.
However, I soon discovered that the OTE was unrealistic, the schedule they promised didn’t match my contract (I’m working significantly more), and the role isn’t as fulfilling as I expected… I realize now that I made a mistake!
I’m planning to leave this company, which means I’ll have seven months of experience from my previous job followed by two months at this one before I depart.
I’ve been interviewing with several new companies and am in the final stages with three of them. I haven’t mentioned my current full-time job yet, since I’ve only been there for two months.
Will they find out? Could I risk losing an offer if they do? What are the chances of facing consequences?
I’m feeling really anxious about this!
RCadmin
It’s understandable to feel panicked in this situation, but there are a few things to consider that might help you find clarity and peace of mind.
Disclosing Your Current Job: You are not legally required to disclose your current employment status to potential employers, especially if you’ve only been there for a short time. Many candidates don’t mention every job they’ve held, particularly if it was brief. Focus on your experience and skills rather than the exact timeline of your employment.
Reference Checks: Most companies conduct reference checks for previous roles but might not contact your current employer until a job offer is on the table. If you’re concerned about a reference check revealing your current job, consider discussing this with potential employers. You can explain your situation without giving too much detail—emphasizing that you’re looking for a role that better aligns with your career goals.
Potential Consequences: While it’s possible for employers to find out about your current job, the chances of it leading to negative consequences depend on how they approach the hiring process. Many reputable companies understand that career paths can be non-linear and value candid communication over short stints at jobs.
Focus on Fit: In your interviews, focus on how your skills and experiences align with the role you’re applying for. Emphasize your enthusiasm for the new position and how it fits with your career aspirations.
Stay Positive: Leaving a job after a short stint is not uncommon, so try not to be too hard on yourself. What matters most is finding a position that makes you happy and aligns with your goals.
Ultimately, just be honest (when appropriate) about your experiences and what you’re looking for moving forward. Good luck with your interviews! You’ve got this!