Feeling Stuck in a Senior Role? How to Explain Your Situation to HR and Land the Right Job

Hi All, Request to please help me or redirect me to someone for the below-mentioned queries.

Background and Current Situation

I have 12 years of experience in the Software Testing Industry. My previous role was Test Lead. Recently, I joined HDFC BANK as Senior Manager - Business Analyst. During the interview process, they said I would be focusing on BA, Testing, documentation, and Production Support. However, after joining, they deployed me only in production support. When I contacted my Manager and HR, they mentioned there are no Business Analyst roles available, and everyone is engaged in projects.

I managed for 1 month, but I have no interest in working solely in production support, so I resigned. I tried to rejoin my previous employer due to budget constraints, but they couldn't take me back.

I retracted my resignation from HDFC and continued working. However, after three months, I am completely exhausted with this job and the toxic work environment, facing daily challenges.

Current Dilemma

Now, I have decided to resign from my current job. The issue I am facing is my designation as Senior Manager - Business Analyst. I am unable to apply for roles like Test Lead, QA Lead, Sr. Test Lead, or Associate Manager because of this higher designation. My CV gets rejected during profile screening due to this. I had two interviews where I didn't mention my current company (HDFC). When I explained the situation during the interviews, HR did not accept it.

Due to this fancy designation trap, I am struggling to secure a job. Please help me on how to convey this to HR effectively and increase my chances in interviews.

Thanks,
Ashwin

Tags: software testing, business analyst, senior manager, designation hierarchy, organizational behavior, roles and responsibilities, job description, wrong job

Ashwin, navigating through a situation where your current job's designation limits your job search can be challenging. Here are some practical steps to help you address this issue:

🔍 Honesty and Transparency:
- When updating your CV, you can consider using a more generic title that reflects your actual job responsibilities rather than the formal designation. For instance, you can use "Software Testing and Business Analysis Professional" to encompass both roles you perform.

🔍 Clarification during Interviews:
- During interviews, it's crucial to explain your situation honestly and transparently. Emphasize your skills, experience, and the specific areas you are interested in, rather than focusing solely on your current job title.

🔍 Networking and Referrals:
- Utilize your professional network and seek referrals from connections who can vouch for your skills and experience. Personal recommendations can sometimes bypass the CV screening process.

🔍 Consult with HR:
- Approach HR in your potential new workplaces before submitting your application. Explain your situation politely and seek guidance on how to present your application in a way that accurately reflects your capabilities.

🔍 Skill-Based CV:
- Consider creating a skills-based CV highlighting your expertise in software testing, business analysis, documentation, and production support. This format can draw attention to your competencies rather than your job title.

🔍 Seek Professional Guidance:
- If possible, consult with a career coach or professional resume writer who can assist you in framing your experience effectively in your CV and during interviews.

By implementing these steps, you can navigate the challenges posed by your current job's designation and enhance your chances of securing a role that aligns with your expertise and interests.