Losing a Job Due to Absenteeism

Dear Deb:

My former manager told me that I was fired due to absenteeism related to a health issue.  He even said that I was a “joke” in the office because of my absenteeism. However, he used the official reason as “budget cuts.” I am working on resolving that issue and am currently looking for a new job.  Should I tell the prospective employers in the interview about the absenteeism and health issue as my reason for termination or should I say it was due to budget cuts? Thank you!  ~ Margo

Dear Margo:

Whatever you do, please do not share that quote from your former manager.  Also, it is not necessary to share in the interview that you were fired for absenteeism due to a health condition.  If the official reason for termination is “budget cuts,” that is the best answer you can give.  Your former employer was generous to provide that reason and you should take advantage of that. 

There are companies (none of which I know personally, but you can search online for reference check service) that will conduct a reference check on you and provide you with a detailed report.  This is one way to know what your former employer may be say about you when contacted by a prospective employer.