Leaving present Job advice required (for future CV)

MarkSmith

Hi,
I recently left my work due to illness which was caused by the stress of the job and unrealistic demands on me and a bit of a bullying boss.
I recieved a sick note from my doctor for the last couple of weeks indicating the illness (not mentioning stress at any point) and handed this in.

I've been asked on a new job application for details about my last job and the reason for leaving. I will probably have to give this boss as my last reference but need advice on how to explain in a professional and tactful manner the reason for leaving.

I don't want to bring work stress into it or make it appear like I'm a troublemaker or criticise others.

I haven't spoken to my last employers about a reference yet but I would like to think that until my illness my work performance was very good.

Any advice much appreciated.

Cheers
M

Iguana

What (in general terms) did the sick note say?
If it said something like 'debility' that can mean anything.
What reason did you give when you left?

MarkSmith

The sick note mentioned a generalised stomach complaint that had caused a bit off time of in past (now I realise that stress was the trigger for it then as well).

The reason I gave for leaving was that I wanted to get to the bottom of my complaint, although away from the stress , I feel a million times better already and isn;t an issue for me anymore.

Emmzi

what would new employer like to hear?

- I was pleased to get good/outstanding appraisal ratings and enjoyed working at company x, (aren't you nice about people?)
-however I chose to move on as I.. (highlghting you were not sacked)..

(insert your fave of the below)

- felt I should look for something with more of a stretch/opportunity to display my talents
-if it's been a few weeks, "I required to deal with a short term family responsibility" (need to be creative in what this is)
- am seeking a role where I can learn.... (whatever it is the company do)to support my longer term career aspiration of (whatever the next step up from your job is)

etc etc. Just emphasise you performed well. They really want to know,"was he sacked?" to filter slackers, flashers, anyone with social integration problems, etc.

MarkSmith

Thanks for the all the advice.

My worry is that the ex-boss WILL mention the health issue in the refereee (he WILL also get rather annoyed that I'm applying for a job only two weeks after taking 'long-time' to sort my health out!).

I'm trying to think of a way to basically say that his 'management style' was making me ill which is why I left.

Is this a good idea though ?

Savvy_Sue

If it's a larger company, you could contact HR and ask if you can just give them for a general reference: Mark worked for this co from X date to Y date. Avoids getting your boss involved ...

Emmzi

MarkSmith wrote: »

Thanks for the all the advice.

My worry is that the ex-boss WILL mention the health issue in the refereee (he WILL also get rather annoyed that I'm applying for a job only two weeks after taking 'long-time' to sort my health out!).

I'm trying to think of a way to basically say that his 'management style' was making me ill which is why I left.

Is this a good idea though ?

No. They don't know your boss, may assume he is an average bloke, and you are a delicate flower.

LittleVoice

Don't put reason for leaving a job on your CV - though, of course, you need to be prepared for the question at interview.