What information should I reveal to a potential employer?

Dear Deb:

If I left my last position as a result of a claim I made against my employer, do I need to write that on my next job application or reveal it when I am offered a job?   It was a hostile work environment.  The case was settled out of court.   I am worried the new employer will want to avoid someone who has made this type of claim in the past.  What should I do?

Thanks,

Chandra M.

Dear Chandra:

First, I would advise you to talk with your attorney.  Ask your attorney about what information you should reveal, as well what the employer is allowed to share. Some settlements have terms requiring the parties to remain silent on the settlement or facts of the case.  Although you do not need to share those details in an interview, you should be careful about not breaching the terms of your settlement.

Regarding your future applications and interviews: When you part on bad terms, it is best to say that you left because you realized that you did not have a future with the company. If pressed for more information, you can say that it was time for you to move on. You can say that you met many knowledgeable and talented people while working there, you learned a great deal, and that you wish them well.  You are not required to say more than that.  Avoid saying anything negative. 

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If you have a question for Deb, please email debra@careersdonewrite.com. The Ask Deb column appears every Friday on our blog at the Careers Done Write website.