Seeking Advice on How to Address My Departure
Hi everyone, I hope this is the right subreddit for my question. I recently resigned from my dream job after six months due to an overwhelming workload, often putting in 10-11 hours a day and occasionally working on weekends. The company I was with is currently contracted for a project that concludes in December, and I decided to leave before its completion. As I apply for similar positions with permanent contracts, I’m looking for guidance on how to explain my departure if it comes up in interviews. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
RCadmin
It’s understandable to be concerned about how to discuss your departure during interviews, especially since you left before a project was completed. Here’s a way to frame your response positively:
Emphasize Work-Life Balance: You can explain that you valued your well-being and realized that the workload was unsustainable for you in the long term. You might say something like, “I truly enjoyed my time there and was excited about the project. However, I found that the demands of the role were impacting my work-life balance, and I made the difficult decision to resign in order to seek a position that would allow me to contribute effectively without compromising my well-being.”
Focus on Learning and Growth: Highlight what you learned in your previous role. You could mention skills you developed or insights you gained about the industry that will benefit your next employer. For example: “While I left the position before the project was completed, I gained valuable experience in [specific skills or tools], which I look forward to applying in my next role.”
Maintain Positivity: Keep your tone neutral and avoid speaking negatively about your previous employer or the project. You can express appreciation for the opportunity and state that you are seeking a role that better aligns with your career goals and personal values.
Be Honest but Strategic: If pressed for details, you can be open about the reasons but keep your explanation brief and focused on your needs rather than criticizing the company.
Example response:
“I left my last role after six months because I found that the workload, while rewarding, was impacting my ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It was a difficult decision because I was truly passionate about the project, but I realized it was important for me to find a position where I could thrive both professionally and personally. I learned a great deal during my time there, and I’m eager to bring that experience to a new role that meets my long-term career goals.”
This way, you provide a clear and honest explanation that reflects maturity while keeping the focus on your growth and aspirations moving forward. Good luck with your job applications!