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"I was an IT director for nine years at a hospital. Due to a reorganization, I was let go. For 18 months I made do with engineering and project management work. Finally I landed a dream job -- IT director at a physician management company. Or so I thought. I struggle daily with trying to 'fit,' as my CEO states. I've only been here four months, and I already want out. Is it acceptable to have a miss, and put it on your résumé?"
Our expert panel weighs in:
Jean Fuller, Fuller Coaching, Woodside, Calif.
Consider the top three reasons YOU want out, and the reasons you have been given why you don't "fit." Often the word fit is code for leadership and communication style -- that is, someone is not collaborative/social enough or aggressive/proactive enough. Or it could refer to one's level of strategic business thinking, meaning you are not contributing at a more strategic level. If either of those ring true for you, can you power up your contributions without feeling like you are in over your head? If it's style, either speed up or slow down -- when in Rome, translate to Italian. If you don't trust the CEO/executive team, get busy scouting and networking.
Renee Arrington, Pearson Partners International Inc., Dallas
It sounds like this is a mismatch of your skills and the company's needs. If you are truly unhappy, you will not perform at your best, and it will show. This is not the reputation you want, so consider making a change now. Activate your personal and professional network. Friends will ask and recruiters will probe the reasons you are looking for a new position so soon. Do not be defensive or put off by this; just tell the truth. As you update your résumé, include this experience even though the tenure is short. If you do not list this job and it is discovered by a potential employer or a search firm, your judgment and integrity will be questioned.
Windy Warner, ProCoach Inc., Dallas
I assume by fit, you mean that you are not meshing with the corporate culture in which you find yourself. I always ask my client to identify the type of culture they thrive in, and then figure out a way to evaluate that aspect of an opportunity. If your current situation is not salvageable, start looking. This time, identify what type of culture you thrive in and include that in your decision-making. I do believe this position should be on your résumé. If asked about the short tenure, be direct and objective.
If you have a career question or experience to share, write to us at editor@ciodecisions.com.
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