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AIBU?

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AIBU to leave a job after eight months and explain why?

27 replies

Holidaymodeon · 21/04/2026 21:13

I posted this on ‘work’ board but not sure how much traffic it gets, so resharing here.
please be gentle, my soul is in shreds!

I changed jobs in September after seeing what I thought was an ideal role in a field I’d previously worked in for years.

I left a stable, part time remote role to return to that type of work because I missed the energy of that role, there was nothing wrong with my old job, I guess I was just bored.
i was in an unhappy relationship too and I think I just needed to change my life!

Before starting, I had some concerns after meeting my new manager, but went ahead.
On joining, it quickly became clear the role was not as advertised.

There are significant issues with structure, safeguarding, and organisational culture, alongside poor processes and a clear values mismatch.

I’ve also experienced bullying and harassment, and HR support has been minimal. I’m now actively looking to leave.
I regret leaving my previous role, but that’s not reversible. The funding has been redeployed elsewhere.
I’m finding fewer opportunities than expected and, for the first time, I’m not being shortlisted like I always was before .

I think that changing roles after 8 months and moving back toward my previous type of work may be a concern for recruiters .

I’m seeking advice on how to present this in applications and interviews please , particularly how to explain in a way that reassures employers, why I’m leaving so soon and returning to a previous career path .

my mental health has taken a massive dip due to this and I don’t even know how I will be able to present myself in interviews but I can’t afford not to apply for jobs because I desperately need an out.

OP posts:
S89 · 02/10/2026 08:17

Holidaymodeon · 01/10/2026 09:15

Hey, thanks for your message. I have stopped jobsearching. I developed a physical condition which currently makes me unable to work, it’s been a very difficult time but it’s been good in a sense because it has drawn a line under that horrendous job, my nervous system is still recovering.
when I was still able I signed on with a really good agency and they have said they’re happy to keep sending me positions for when I’m up and running again. Honestly I have no idea how long it will be until I’m able to work again, so it’s a trepidatious situation I’m in.
I really hope things fare better for you and that you find something you love and a permanent contract too.
sorry that you have had the same experience as me with the new job, it’s such a shame when things don’t work out .
good luck I

I'm so sorry to hear that, will keep everything crossed for you that things improve with your health and you are able to recover physically and mentally from your experience. I think we really underestimate what a toll these experiences take on us. I took 4 months after my horrendous job before getting my current role and tbh, could have easily had longer off. I only really started "seriously" job hunting just before I got my current role. Thank you for your good wishes. Since yesterday I have found out that a permanent member of my current team resigned yesterday, so will certainly be keeping an eye out and applying for their role when it is advertised 🤞🤞

Holidaymodeon · 02/10/2026 13:31

S89 · 02/10/2026 08:17

I'm so sorry to hear that, will keep everything crossed for you that things improve with your health and you are able to recover physically and mentally from your experience. I think we really underestimate what a toll these experiences take on us. I took 4 months after my horrendous job before getting my current role and tbh, could have easily had longer off. I only really started "seriously" job hunting just before I got my current role. Thank you for your good wishes. Since yesterday I have found out that a permanent member of my current team resigned yesterday, so will certainly be keeping an eye out and applying for their role when it is advertised 🤞🤞

Ooh good Luck! I really hope it works out for you 🍀
thanks for your kind words, it’s a lot to get my head around, I’ve never not worked so it’s taking some time to process, I need to find a way to balance my free time and need to be occupied with my pain management and recovery!

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