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Vault Message Board: Job Search

Topic Name: HELP! I need a JOB
Message Name: Very Hard if you Quit a job
Date Posted: 11/12/2004
In Reply To: About 3 months ago I quit my job due to multiple reasons - location, job fit, and the company overall. At the time it seemed liked the best solution because of timing (I was going to have resign a lease on my townhouse, etc...). Originally I was going to change occupations to what I really want to do, but now I am really considering giving up and going back to the area that I have experience. I know that I should just be patient, but with the job market the way it is I am concerned that I will never find a job. I do have some experience in my new field, but it is limited to internships and projects from grad school. I have been networking and sending out resumes as well as doing the job board thing, but with no avail. Any advice?
Message: For whatever reason, finding a job after you quit another job has become very difficult. It's even harder to find another job after quiting, than it is if you got laid off (b/c at least when you're laid off, you have an obvious excuse as to why you are no longer with the company). I think that the key is to really work on the explanation of why you quit because if that explanation isn't good, you may find yourself on the losing end no matter how many interviews you get (that may be why you're not getting any replies). You may want to practice with a professional (out-placement/employment professional) to really work on articulating your reasons for quitting, because if the reason isn't good, all potential employers will be skeptical. Also, solid references from your previous employer will help, along with a solid reason of why you interested in this new position. All of these things could be summed up in a strong cover-letter (again you may want to get professional help with it to ensure that everything on there is coming out right). In summary, I think you have to articulate very strong reasons for why you quit your previous job, and very solid reasons for why you are interested in the various jobs that you are looking for. This may lead to more opportunities. Good luck with everything!

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