Be upfront about how previous job came to an end

Johnny C. Taylor Jr., a human resources expert, is tackling your questions as part of a series for USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional society.

The questions are submitted by readers, and Taylor's answers below have been edited for length and clarity.

Question: In a previous job, I discovered a $29 million theft inside my company and reported it to top management, along with evidence. Four months later, nothing had been done, and I received no feedback about the report. When I asked for an update, the company director became furious with me and asked me to resign or face dismissal. My fear now is going to interviews and being asked why I resigned without having another job. I know it’s not acceptable to badmouth my previous employer, but how do I answer this question without getting into my feelings about the injustice done to me? – Anonymous

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.: First, I commend you for bringing such a big discrepancy to your employer’s attention.

While I don’t know all of the facts, a real problem exists when an employee, in good faith, notifies an employer of potential misconduct or wrongdoing and is asked to resign instead. This indicates an unhealthy workplace culture.

As you go through the interview process, it is best to answer questions as honestly as possible. You can say that you resigned due to a conflict of ethics. If pressed, you may say something like, “My previous employer asked me to resign because I reported a discrepancy.”

Be prepared to explain what happened leading up to the resignation, but keep it surface-level and dispassionate.

Stay positive during the interview, steering the conversation to your performance and relevant accomplishments. Emphasize what you can offer a prospective employer because of your experience and skill set.

Question: I’m finishing up my senior year at college, so I’m preparing to interview all sorts of prospective employers. Beyond working at my hometown cafe in the summers, though, I don’t have much interview experience, especially with high-profile companies. What do you recommend for a successful interview? – Anonymous

Taylor Jr.: To ace any interview, do your research. Learn the company’s history, culture, and business

Focus on the skills you have refined in other areas. Don’t discount your experience at your hometown cafe either. Any and all experience matters!