Explaining why you left job after PILON

[Islandblue99]

Sorry for posting yet another thread. I’m going through a pretty stressful time and the MN responses have all been so helpful.

In brief, I’m currently negotiating my exit from a company. The exit isn’t my fault and I’m feeling pretty down about it.

I requested gardening leave but the company have offered PILON instead. That would mean immediate termination of my employment.

I’m currently interviewing for jobs and I’m so worried about the references. How would I explain why I left my current job without securing a new one? Especially as the current roles I’m interviewing for all know I’m currently employed. Why would I quit now without having a job secured? It’s not as if it would be a long period of time (hopefully) but it looks so suspicious.

I’m worried it will affect my chances of getting a new job.

[PickledPurplePickle]

How long have you been there?
What is the reason for the termination?
Will you be able to get a reference from them? This should be part of your negotiation

[Islandblue99]

@PickledPurplePickle i’ve been there almost 6 years. I won’t give too many details but bullying from a manager and lots of stress has led to illness.
I’m negotiating with them at the moment but a reference should be part of it.

[SevenSeasOfRhye]

If asked, say you were offered PILON and accepted it so you could focus on your job search, be available for interviews and offer an immediate start.

[Islandblue99]

@SevenSeasOfRhye thank you, that’s really helpful!

[LoveSkaMusic]

You need to negotiate for an agreed set of references in your settlement agreement.

The normal format for this is to confirm your name, job title and dates of employment.

And you can be mostly honest in interviews if you wish, without being to disparaging. Something like "There was a change in my line management which unfortunately was handled in such a manner that it disrupted my work to the point where I felt it was better to look for a new role". That should do it.

Alternatively just lie and say, "I had another job lined up but it fell through at the last moment".

[Islandblue99]

Thanks everyone!