First of all, I hope everyone will be safe or get an even better placement eventually. So recently, I've been interviewing for other jobs, and I keep being asked why do I want to leave the bank. I tried to use some general answers like career advancement, but for me, that doesn't sound very sincere. So, should I just tell them Truist is doing well and is announcing to lay off a huge amount of people? Does that statement gonna help or harm me?
7 replies (most recent on top)
Just started a new job, I’ve been interning since last year when all this started. I told everyone I interviewed with the same thing. “There’s a lot of volatility in the regional bank market, and I’ve lost faith in company leadership to take this company where it needs to go. Needless to say I the accepted a position with better work life balance and a 40% pay increase. Best of luck!
No reason to lie. All you have to do is state neutral facts. There is a reorg and you are looking for a better position. That is more than enough.
My advice to anyone interviewing for a new position:
- NEVER speak badly about Truist. Just mention Truist is right sizing and you were laid-off. You liked your job and Truist is a great bank (su-k it up and say it).
- If you get to the point where you’re discussing an offer, this is your chance to request a signing bonus and/or a relocation package. If you don’t ask, you probably won’t get it.
- Set your salary requirement higher than you were making at Truist. Most employers have more flexibility regarding salaries for new hires than they do existing employees. Once hired, you will likely get just the minimal annual increase.
Good luck to all.
You can always say something like, “unfortunately, due to a reduction in force, my role was eliminated. However, I am confident that my professional experience as a whole provided me with a strong foundation (insert role).”
That way, you are covered and it’s easier to get the message across. Practice your response and be transparent.
Good luck with your search! You’ve got this!
The layoffs were publicly announced so it's understandable for anyone to be looking. But then again I'm looking to get out of the banking industry, so there's the more general instability since the failures in March.
Also, most people on Truist footprint know it's a sh-t show. They are checking you for messaging discipline as well as pumping you for competitive info. Don't fall into the trap and stay on code.
You just mentioned sincerity. Does lying make you more or less sincere? You don't have to bash Truist. Just be honest about fit, career goals, and want you wanto from an employer. Why you believe the new team can better help you achieve your goals