Tech Career and Resume Advice

In My Humble Opinion
1

Alright, I know a big slice of the SDMB works in IT for living, so I’m betting this’ll be a good place to ask.

Basically, after about 4 years with one employer doing a mix of development, Oracle, and Solaris administration (mostly development with a couple of J2EE projects and some other stuff) I realized I was burned out on my job, largely because there was no where for me to progress.

So I decided to get another job. I had a couple interviews (and turned down others). I was very clear about why I was leaving (unfocused work and no path for advancement) and what I wanted (focused Java development). So, long story short, I accepted an offer that sounded good, gave two weeks notice and started at the new place (a consulting group).

The place they put me with was nothing like what I was looking for. They acknowledge this, and say they were misled about the position as well. They say they’re working on it. I believe them, but I also think I should prepare for the possibility that I’ll be searching for another job soon. I’m going to give them some time, but I’m sure as fuck not going to be doing what I’m doing a couple months from now.

So, if I do end up bailing, how the heck do I handle something like this in a future resume or in subsequent interviews? :confused: Would it be a major black mark on my (previously nice) resume?

2

What you describe doesn’t seem to be a black mark at all. I would just be honest and spin it well. If you describe it basically like you did in your OP then it sounds like you are focused and goal-oriented and were unhappy to be misled. Those are good things.

3

I agree with Shagnasty, but am posting to say that, if you’re willing to relocate, my company is hiring Java developers. :smiley:

4

Nah, Dallas has grown on me. I may be the only Democrat in my city, but at least I can afford a place on several acres (of dead weeds and dirt!), and cheap tex-mex food abounds in artery-clogging goodness. There’s something to be said about an affordable cost of living coupled with a major metropolitan area. :smiley:

Thanks for the advice, Shagnasty and Misnomer. I was worried that a short stint like that would look pretty bad, but maybe it won’t be so bad. I’m meeting with someone from the company I work for (not the client) tomorrow; I’m gonna try and get a “you’ll be in a more fitting position by this date” commitment out of them then. If not, back to the job boards.