It may be that the very reason you’re looking for a new job is because you and your current boss don’t get along—and that’s perfectly understandable. Kudos to you for taking the initiative to seek a better fit! But how do you handle this situation during the interview process without jeopardizing your chances of landing a new role? There are a few key steps to take, and you’ll need to be mindful of how you frame your responses during interviews.
In many interviews, you’ll likely be asked at least one question about your relationship with your current boss. It might come in different forms, such as “Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a manager” or “Describe your working relationship with your current supervisor.” The most important thing to remember is to stay positive—avoid criticizing your boss or airing grievances. No matter how the question is phrased, always remain professional.
Here’s how to navigate these questions with poise:
1. Stick to the Facts, Not Feelings
Remove any emotional baggage from the situation and focus on the facts. Briefly describe the circumstances, but be sure to highlight the steps you’ve taken to address or resolve the issue. For example, if you’ve implemented communication strategies or made efforts to find common ground, mention those. This shows that you’re solution-oriented and professional, even in difficult situations.
2. Avoid Playing the Blame Game
Don’t paint your boss as the villain. Even if you’ve had a rough experience, keep the tone neutral and professional. Venting may feel cathartic, but it can come across as unprofessional to your potential employer. Instead, focus on how the situation helped you grow or taught you valuable problem-solving skills.
3. Emphasize Your Problem-Solving Skills
Rather than dwelling on the conflict, use the opportunity to showcase your ability to navigate challenges. Explain how you’ve worked to improve the situation and what you’ve learned from the experience. This will demonstrate that you can handle adversity while staying composed and focused.
4. Manage Reference Concerns
If you’re worried that your current boss might sabotage your job search during a reference check, there are a couple of ways to mitigate that. If your relationship isn’t overly hostile and you believe your boss is reasonable, consider giving them a heads-up that you’re exploring other opportunities. However, if this isn’t feasible, think about offering another manager or colleague as a reference—someone who knows your work well and can vouch for your professionalism.
By staying positive, focusing on solutions, and managing references strategically, you can navigate a tricky relationship with your current boss without letting it hinder your job search. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate your professionalism and ability to handle difficult situations with grace.
