How to Spin Multiple One Year Stints…

Question

Over the last few years I've had less than ideal luck with the sales gigs I've had. An org I joined 90 days ago just let a bunch of new peeps go. Before that I was let go at the one year mark due to budget cuts. Before that I was at back to back companies that were acquired and shut down (both right at the 1 year mark). How the hell do I spin this in interviews. I've been fortunate enough to have decent success in most of these positions and have decent references from those orgs, but am finding it difficult to communicate to hiring managers that I'm not full of bullshit. Any advice?

Accepted Answer

What happens when you are transparent and tell the truth?

Answer

It sounds like you've worked for a lot of early stage companies?

Answer

Seems like a lot of uncontrollable things, anybody hiring you that is worth their salt can see that. Just be honest

Answer

When you say you're finding it difficult to explain you're not bullshitting, can you elaborate on what you mean?

Answer

I agree with some of the other comments here - just be honest about those roles and highlight the experience gained and success found within them.

Answer

Honestly?  Those all seem like valid reasons for the short stints to me.  I'm not sure why it's being seen as BS.  Can you expand on that?  What's happening with those hiring managers?   I mean, it sounds as though you could spin it humorously as a few cases of bad luck, but as an opportunity to land on your feet and learn a lot from each company in a very short span of time.   And that you're now looking forward to applying that flexibility and ability to learn quickly in a longer term position.

Answer

The only reason I could see this as an issue is if the way you're conveying the message is being perceived as untruthful. Try being light-hearted about it and, as suggested by @funcoupons, have a sense of humor about it.

Answer

Have you tried getting feedback from these recruiters to see if they all have common points for rejection?

Answer

This feels like a situation where a cover letter is your best ally. It's your chance to tell your side of the story, and spin your background as an adventurous risk-taker.. or however you want to tell the story.

BillyHoyle

How to Spin Multiple One Year Stints…

12 comments

BillyHoyle

How to Spin Multiple One Year Stints…

12 comments

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