Comments on: Job Interview: Reason for Leaving Your Job After 15 Years

By: Job Interview: How to Answer Why You Left Your Last Job When You Actually Quit | Work Coach Cafe

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 03:38:53 +0000

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By: Ronnie Ann

Ronnie Ann — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:26:07 +0000

Thank you SOOO much for adding this Rick. I’m a big fan of your smart, practical Pongo posts, and this is a good example why.

I actually thought of discussing this, but only wound up alluding to it in my “lifer” comment. Thanks for expanding so well on the thought. Showing adaptability and ability to tackle new projects successfully, especially within a long-term job, is pretty much always a good thing.

Thanks again, Rick. And Edwin…go git ‘em!

Ronnie Ann

By: Rick

Rick — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:22:53 +0000

Hi Edwin (and Ronnie Ann)! While working 15 years for one employer is certainly admirable in this day and age, it may raise questions with potential employers about your adaptability. Some may be concerned about how you’ll manage a transition into a new role at a new company, especially if its culture is quite different from the one you were used to.

To combat this, use your resume and the interview to cite how you adapted to certain changes, maybe in management, roles, and responsibilities. Both of you know things will be very different for you if you’re hired, but make it clear that you can adapt to change, even if it requires extra effort at the beginning of your new assignment.

And, to echo what Ronnie Ann said: See if your former boss will give you a good reference. Don’t be afraid to ask former co-workers to act as references for you too.

Best of luck!
~ Rick