The FastDay Forum

Hi all, I'm hoping to get some sound advice here. I am currently signed off work with depression, and have been for 4 months. This was due to starting a new job in a very stressful and unsupportive environment, and some personal issues which all got on top of me.
I have been feeling much better of late, and am in negotiations with my current employer to release me from my contract. In the meantime I applied for a dream job, and have got an interview. The date of the interview is going to be after I am released from my current contract.
That's the back ground, now my quandary. In application for this role I had to submit a CV and cover letter. I left my 'current' employer off my CV as I wasn't entirely sure how things were going to pan out. I am prepared that in my interview they will ask about the gap in my employment but am unsure whether to tell them what's happened previously.
I know that by omitting this employment I run the risk of them finding out some other way (eg. When sorting my tax code etc if I'm successful) but I am also very aware that having so much sick time for depression could be off putting. And that they may consider that I was dishonest by leaving it off in the CV.
I would appreciate some advice on this please, and before some of you say it, I know I've put myself in this position, I am feeling guilty enough as it is.
Thanks
Dot

Come clean. Not would compound the problems.
You have a chance to explain in person, so go for it and good luck xx

I agree with Penny - I'd be upfront about it - then you start with a clean slate (plus if you get the job you're not always worrying someone will find out).

Good luck!

I think you have no option but to be upfront and tell the truth so everything is out in the open with any future employer. As long as you explain the situation I'm sure your honesty will be appreciated and taken into account. Best of luck with the interview!

Absolutely tell them the truth and explain the current working environment you have been in and that you are looking for a more supportive, nurturing working environment and you believe that they can offer that- suck up a little bit, can't hurt. Good luck with your interview!

OH @Dotted This is a difficult one because I think you're dammed if you do & dammed if you don't !!!
If as you say they do find out from the tax etc then coming clean is probably best but there may be certain stigma + concerns for your future time keeping may be associated with depression, and if you say the other firm added to your depression that may backfire.
Good luck with the interview and your decision.

Thanks for your replies. I know in my heart that the right thing to do is to tell the truth. I would definitely always be worried if I didn't and I got the job. I guess I'm just petrified that this will put me out of the running. This really is my dream job, the one I've always had in the back of my mind during my education, and a job that doesn't come up very often.
@daydreamer21 I really like your suggestion of turning it into a way to 'suck up' a little. The company I've applied for would be wonderful to work with and I think would genuinely be supportive and nurturing.

I have applied for other jobs, and when there's been a legally binding application I have put down my current employer, so I'm not out to genuinely deceive people, it's just scary!

Xx

My guess is that you wont interview very well if you are trying to hide something, so I'd be honest and hope for the best. Just prepare incredibly well to convince them that you are the one.

Hi all, I'm hoping to get some sound advice here. I am currently signed off work with depression, and have been for 4 months. This was due to starting a new job in a very stressful and unsupportive environment, and some personal issues which all got on top of me.
I have been feeling much better of late, and am in negotiations with my current employer to release me from my contract. In the meantime I applied for a dream job, and have got an interview. The date of the interview is going to be after I am released from my current contract.
That's the back ground, now my quandary. In application for this role I had to submit a CV and cover letter. I left my 'current' employer off my CV as I wasn't entirely sure how things were going to pan out. I am prepared that in my interview they will ask about the gap in my employment but am unsure whether to tell them what's happened previously.
I know that by omitting this employment I run the risk of them finding out some other way (eg. When sorting my tax code etc if I'm successful) but I am also very aware that having so much sick time for depression could be off putting. And that they may consider that I was dishonest by leaving it off in the CV.
I would appreciate some advice on this please, and before some of you say it, I know I've put myself in this position, I am feeling guilty enough as it is.
Thanks
Dot

I don't think any one of us would even think, let alone say that you have put yourself in this position don't be so harsh on yourself I think there are two positive notes to being open with your potential employer; it will show you're trustworthy and also that you are able to look after yourself by taking the time to recuperate - I reckon they'll see that as you being capable and in top nick to fulfill the role

Good luck, let us know how you get on

Thanks for your advice Merlin and chichi13.
Merlin you're right, I wouldn't interview well if I was hiding something. I'm not very good at lying and would no doubt be completely awkward and not relaxed.
Chichi13 thanks for your lovely words. the interview isn't until the end of fen so have a good bit of time to prepare.

Dot x

I think you have to mention the job, but you don't necessarily have to reveal all the details. You could say that you had to take a leave for personal reasons and that you realized it just wasn't the right fit for you. Then try to focus more on why this current job IS the right one for you and even more why YOU are the right one for them! Good Luck!!!

Think its all been said already,so will just say i really hope you get this dream job! Fingers,eyes and legs X'd for you ! X keep us posted!

I think you have to mention the job, but you don't necessarily have to reveal all the details. You could say that you had to take a leave for personal reasons and that you realized it just wasn't the right fit for you. Then try to focus more on why this current job IS the right one for you and even more why YOU are the right one for them! Good Luck!!!

I think this advice is spot on - first of all, you've got the interview, which is pretty darn good and shows they're definitely interested in having you. Don't make a big thing about the job you've just left, or give the impression that you expect them to take it negatively. Act as if this move is the most natural thing in the world and let them see what an amazing asset you're going to be to them.

Most of all I would say get yourself into a really confident place before the interview and be on the front foot at all times. You are interviewing them, as much as they you.

Good luck and GO DOT!

I think you've been given some really good advice here.
I was off work with depression for about 6 months, due to the stress of the job I was in, a few years ago, so I know how difficult it can be.
Good luck with your interview. A dream job is worth fighting for.

Thanks so much guys. I came here feeling very worried about what to do, but you've all made me feel very positive. really nice not to have anyone criticising, you're all wonderful people

I think you have to mention the job, but you don't necessarily have to reveal all the details. You could say that you had to take a leave for personal reasons and that you realized it just wasn't the right fit for you. Then try to focus more on why this current job IS the right one for you and even more why YOU are the right one for them! Good Luck!!!

This is great advice. Thank you so much, I shall definitely be approaching the situation this way.

Now for the research and preparation. Fingers crossed that this is 'the One' but if not at least I'll know that I did things honestly. be prepared for some pre interview jitters from me

Dot x