Should I list this job on my resume?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Many (most?) people will tell you to leave it off if the separation was due to performance-related issues, disciplinary actions, or conflicts.

However, many job applications specify, "Please list all positions you have held in the past 10 years, including any short-term or temporary roles" or

"Have you ever been employed by a company where you worked less than 6 months? Please explain."

Ultimately, it's best to include the job in your resume and job applications if it explicitly asks you to list all your jobs.

Here's how not listing the job could backfire:

• Omitting a short-term job could raise red flags if the employer finds out later (during background checks, references, or follow-up questions). Honesty is key. Employers value honesty, and if they notice a missing job, it could harm your credibility.
•  Omitting a short-term job could make you appear to be hiding something, which is worse than explaining it.
• You will need to explain the two-month employment gap anyway.

If you're concerned about how a short-term position might look, you can frame it positively. In an interview, you can briefly explain the circumstances (e.g., "The position wasn't the right fit for my skills and career goals") and focus on what you learned from the experience. This shows that you are self-aware and professional.

It's not ideal, but neither is being misleading.

You must decide whether to be transparent and explain the situation or risk omitting the job and appearing dishonest later.

Best wishes in your decision,

Nurse Beth