How can I discuss that I was fired with future employers?

My new job is not working out. I am going to get fired. I don’t receive any direction or training and the job requirements are different from what was discussed in the interview. How do I handle this on my resume and when talking to prospective employers without sounding defensive?

Well, there is a silver lining in all of this, if you can believe that. At least you aren’t going to be caught off guard and can prepare if you feel your fate is sealed. First, assuming the situation is beyond repair, try to negotiate your exit so that you have some time to look for a new job.

Companies prefer amicable separations and might be willing to give you more time. They will at least be likely to negotiate how they will handle a reference check, where you can have it recorded as a voluntary resignation in their system. That’s important, because you don’t want to rely on your current boss or human resources team — they may not be there when the time comes for a reference check.

If you don’t land another job before you leave, confirm that the employer won’t challenge your application for unemployment, because in most cases a resignation disqualifies you from benefits.

[Read more]