Interestingly enough, at Design Force we have heard just about every reason why things don’t work out with an employer or job opportunity. Most recently, however, something different happened.
About a month ago, we interviewed a candidate internally and asked the candidate point blank why they left their most recent employer. They, without hesitation, said that they had a personality conflict with the department head of the studio. The candidate stated, “While I loved the projects, the work and even my peers, the Studio Leader led our group in a dramatically different way than I wished to work in.”
This candidate is a very talented designer who has a great portfolio to show for her years in the industry. We felt compelled to present her to our clients for consideration. She earned 3 interviews almost instantly through our client base. During interview with our clients, they asked her directly why she left her most recent employer. She quickly, calmly and without a pugnacious tone stated that it was due to a personality conflict.
Growing up in the recruitment industry, we were always taught that speaking ill or negatively of your experiences could cost you the job. When we came to debrief with our client, they noted how refreshing it was that a candidate was honest and open about their reason for departure. This gave me pause. Are candidates saying what employers want to hear? Are employers tired of hearing the canned responses ideal potential employees are giving?
Transparency has been a leading reason why candidates and companies have chosen one another after the economic shakedown. Word of advice: Bashing your previous boss with dirty words is always going to be ill-advised. However, speaking respectfully but truthfully may earn you an offer. It did in this circumstance.
Please share your thoughts after passing this unconventional rationale around within your peer group. This should strike an interesting dialog.
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