James writes:
I was terminated from my last job. On several employment applications since then, I haven’t been able to get employed. I always tell my prospective employer about my last employer and that I was indeed terminated. Should I omit my past employer that fired me on my future employment applications? Can my past employer tell others that I was fired? What is my past employer allowed to communicate to others?
The Career Doctor responds:
I can’t say this fact often enough: job-hunting is all about marketing and selling. Get the prospective employer hooked on your mix of skills, abilities, and accomplishments — and then let them see any warts or scratches in the polish. In other words, never broadcast anything negative about yourself to prospective employers.
Please note. I am not saying you should lie or cover up any negative information. What I am saying is that you should never volunteer the information. Eventually you’re going to get a question about why you left your last job — but hopefully after you’ve had plenty of time to sell yourself.
Remember also that in this economy, lots of people — unfortunately — have been terminated, downsized, or rightsized, so you are not alone.
Can your past employer slam you if a prospective employer calls them? Sure. How many actually will do so in this very litigious society? Very few. If contacted, most will simply offer your dates of employment and some vague reason for termination — thus it’s up to you to fill in the details in as positive a way as possible, including demonstrating what you have learned from the experience.
It might also help to read my article, Getting Fired: An Opportunity for Change and Growth, published on Quintessential Careers.
