What to say at an interview when you left on bad terms?

[rbnyc]

2. Even though...

...you say you didn't have much of a choice, I would make it about choice. It's a tough situation to be in. I think if it were me, I would make it about my desire for the right fit - to put myself in the right situation and make myself available for the best opportunities. Maybe I would say something like, "It was my choice to leave the organization. Although it was a risk, there had been a cultural shift within the organization and I felt it was my opportunity to find a better relationship, so to speak. I had to make a choice about my role in the changes that were going on. I didn't feel completely bought in. I think it's very important to be committed to the direction of an organization. It was time to look for a better fit."

If pressed for specifics on "cultural changes" I would try to keep it vague. "There are many ways to run a business and people can disagree without either of them being wrong. It's just a question of perspective and style. I want to avoid being overly critical of my former employers. I still feel a sense of gratitude for my experiences there."

Stay away from anything that seems like there was game-playing or power politics. Don't play the victim.

Hope that helps.