Interview communication plan - left the firm but didn't bring up in interviews

Question

Dear forum experts, in a previous thread, I mentioned that I was counseled out and applied to many firms when I was still with the firm. Experts suggested that I shouldn't disclose that I have left the firm in interviews unless being directly asked.

In recent interviews, I have followed this path, only mentioning I want to switch jobs due to motivation reasons. Now that I have left the firm, I'm wondering if the interviews takes a long period (2-3 months), can I still follow the same strategy and conceal that I have already left?

Assuming that I received an offer 2 months after I left the firm, the HR would easily find out that I have left the firm when I provide my proof of employment which states the last employment date. (Also, when interviewing with firms, people might “gossip” and reach out to my previous firms' staffs, and may find out that I've already left.) Would it be a big issue when the HR finds out that I have already left the firm a while ago, but chose not to disclose?

Highly appreciate your thoughts.

Answer 1

Hi there,

In general, do not ‘conceal’ anything. It's going to hurt you eventually.

You can still use the same motivation point even if you have already left the firm.

You can say that there were not many projects happening and you also wanted to take this time for your career to reflect on what you want to do next and where.

HR does do background check and if they discover inconsistencies that's going to lead to some unpleasant discussions for everybody involved.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 2

Hi there

in my view, strategy here should be pretty straight-forward.

If they don't ask you, don't mention pro-actively
If they ask you, be honest
If they then ask you WHY you left - please refer to my longer answer in the other thread. In essence, focus on why YOU WANTED to change. There can be many legitimate reasons for leaving a firm after year, so would not be too worried about it.

Hope this helps.

Regards, Andi

Answer 3

Hi there,

Same rule applies!

“Avoid” the truth but don't lie. Emphasize that you learned a ton, it was a great experience but it was time to go.

If they ask directly, yes, you have to tell the truth.