November 3, 2010

How do I explain a demotion to prospective employers?

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By Kristen Fife
NWjobs

Q: I am an administrative professional. Last year, I was given the option of taking a demotion at a significant paycut at my current employer, or being let go. Due to the economy at that time, I took the demotion. I am looking for a position similar to the one I held before the demotion; promotional opportunities are not available to me at my current job. What is the best way to explain the demotion to a prospective employer?
-MO, Seattle

Kristen says: Unfortunately, you are not alone in your dilemma; the same situation is playing out across the country. You have an advantage in working for the same company. Right now, the most important thing is getting your foot in the door at a new company, and that means your resume needs to sell you as a well-rounded professional. Common practice is to break up your positions at one company into separate sections. I would suggest that you use a hybrid title to represent the two jobs you have done such as: “Receptionist/Administrative Assistant” or “Clerk/Administrative Assistant.” Then list out both sets of responsibilities, highlighting the key contributions you made across the board, such as projects you worked on or process improvements resulting in a decrease in costs or increase in revenue. At the top, you want to stress your strengths as an administrative professional with a targeted summary. An example would be, “Seasoned administrative professional with experience supporting two managers and their direct reports. Responsible for event planning, managing multiple calendars and quarterly financial conference calls, space planning and document management.” The key is to be specific in your summary, and to update it for the positions you are pursuing: Make sure the summary includes highlights of any specific skills they are looking for that you have called out throughout the rest of your resume.

Once you start interviewing, let your interviewer know that as the economy affected the company, everyone was asked to wear many hats, but that there is no growth opportunity for you there. Focus on your strengths as they relate to the new positions you are seeking. The most important thing for you to do is to avoid speaking negatively about your current employer. By focusing on the positives and your value to a new employer, you will shine.

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