Question: In 2008, I worked as a front-desk receptionist for a local company.
After about six months on the job, my supervisor informed me that she was letting me go. She said that they needed a full-time employee, and since I was only available part time, I had to leave. But I was skeptical because I had a co-worker who treated me poorly and bullied me throughout my employment.
I recently found out that my old supervisor is not with the company anymore and my former co-worker is giving out bad references over the phone. She mentioned to one of my references that I was extremely slow in learning new computer systems and my feelings were hurt when reprimanded. Even though this person was not my boss, she said that she would not hire me back.
I don’t want to put this company on my resume, but I’m afraid that a background check will reveal that I worked there for six months. I am also concerned because most job applications ask if you were ever fired or terminated.
I don’t want to lie on an application, but I feel sunk if I say I was terminated. What should I do?
J.S., Stanwood
Answer: For a part-time position that occurred over two years ago, this job is taking up too much of your energy and attention. It’s time to remove this thorn from your side. Luckily, with a little bit of damage control, you can toss this unfortunate position (and co-worker) out of your mind forever.
Start by removing the job from your resume immediately. Remember that your resume is a marketing document. It is supposed to highlight your best attributes, capture attention and lead to job interviews. In most cases, it is best for job seekers to eliminate short-term, off-target or unrelated positions from their documents unless there is a rock-solid reason to include them.
Next, revise your reference sheet. This is imperative because every time you share the name or phone number of this company, you give your ruthless coworker another opportunity to obstruct your job search. Erase this place of business — and everyone from its present or past work force — from your list of contacts.
Create a streamlined reference list that includes the names bosses, colleagues, teachers, clients or professional acquaintances that you can trust. Meet new people if you have to. Networking takes time, so the sooner you begin building positive relationships, the better.
Finally, rethink job applications. In some cases, these forms request information on all jobs held during a specific period of time (such as the past 10 years). Other times, they don’t. Read the instructions carefully. If you must include your six-month receptionist role, include the name of your former supervisor and write, “No longer with the company.” Don’t insert the address or phone number of the business. If the application seeks permission to contact past employers, do not give your consent.
Based on your description, you were not officially terminated from this job. The supervisor told you that she needed a full-time employee. End of story. As you move forward, remind yourself that most people have imperfect jobs in their past. It’s time for you to “let them go” once and for all.
Send your questions to Eve.GetaJob@gmail.com.
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