Should I Disclose My Job Situation? (UK)
I started my role as an Account Manager at a tech company in January 2024, and I was really enjoying it—until everything changed six months later when my territory was eliminated in July 2024.
Around that time, I was approached by a very small startup and decided to explore that opportunity. From our initial conversation, everything seemed perfect: a great mission, a flexible schedule, attractive pay, and a fantastic team. I was thrilled and made the switch.
However, I quickly realized that the on-target earnings (OTE) were unrealistic, the actual schedule didn’t align with my contract, leading to me working much more than expected, and the job itself wasn’t as fulfilling as it appeared… I’ve come to realize I made a mistake!
Now, I’m planning to leave this company after just two months, and I already have seven months of experience from my previous role. I’ve been interviewing with several companies and am in the final stages with three of them. I haven’t mentioned my current job since I’ve been there for such a short time.
Will they find out? Could I jeopardize my chances if they discover I’m currently employed? What are the risks of keeping this information to myself?
I’m feeling really anxious about this!
RCadmin
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about your situation, but try to take a breath and assess the situation calmly. Here are a few points to consider:
Disclosure: You generally aren’t required to disclose your current job to potential employers, especially if you’ve only been there for a short period. However, it’s good practice to be honest if the topic comes up.
Background Checks: Many companies perform background checks which can verify your employment history. There’s a chance they may contact your current employer, but it’s also common for hiring managers to focus primarily on your skills and experiences rather than on the length of time spent at each job.
Focus on Your Strengths: When discussing your experiences in interviews, emphasize the skills and knowledge you’ve gained from both positions rather than focusing on the duration of your employment. Highlight your achievements and how they relate to the role you’re applying for.
Prepare for Questions: If your employment history comes up, be prepared to explain briefly why you made the change without delving too deeply into negative experiences. Keep it professional and focus on your desire for better alignment with your career goals.
No Need to Panic: It’s normal for job seekers to have short tenures, especially in dynamic fields like tech and startups. Just ensure you’re clear about what you want in your next role, and focus on communicating that during your interviews.
Ultimately, you have the right to seek a position that aligns with your goals and values. Just be honest in your applications and interviews without oversharing, and focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table. Good luck!