Fired for Just Cause (How to be truthful in the next job interview)
We're incredibly sorry to hear that you were fired with due cause. If J.K. Rowling, Jerry Seinfeld, Madonna, Thomas Edison, and Walt Disney all found a way to bounce back from being fired, so can you...
Being asked about why you were terminated is among the most challenging interview questions to respond to. It's uncomfortable to talk about losing your job (under any circumstances), and it's even harder when you're trying to explain it to someone you are very hopeful will hire you.
Beyond the conditions of your dismissal, the hiring decision-maker is looking to see how you cope with adversity.
First and foremost, they need to know that you weren’t fired for scandelous misbehavior, e.g. stealing. But beyond that, they’ll want to know that the issue is no longer a problem and that you can take responsibility for your actions. Here is where you are going to demonstrate personal and professional growth.
The best strategy is to keep your answer concise (short and to the point). There is such a thing as too much information, and this is one of those situations where you should keep yourself from bubbling over with fierce and fiery details.
It's imperative to be honest. If you're tempted to provide a different reason than being fired for leaving your job, know that your previous employer has the right to disclose the reason for your termination during a reference check.
Remember too, that being dishonest during the application process can result in losing the job offer entirely, or being fired should your deception be discovered after you're hired. Never stretch the truth or misrepresent your experience no matter how tempting or desperate you may be to get the job.
Tailor your response to fit your own circumstances and how your termination was handled...
A simple and reasonable explanation might be: "Getting cut, was a blessing in disguise. Now I have the opportunity to explore jobs that better suit my qualifications and interests. My research suggests that such an opportunity may be the one on your table. My vision aligns with your company’s mission, and I’m really excited to work for an organization that values the same things I do. Would you like to hear more about my skills in working with new technology?”
You don't have to describe it in detail (especially if it was particularly messy).
Practice your response. The more comfortable you are sharing your termination with an interviewer, the more comfortable the hiring decision-maker will be with your response. Come prepared to explain the circumstances and practice until you overcome any feelings of embarrassment. Again, remember that some of the best and brightest in history have been let go.
Keep it brief. You want to be forthright and honest. Share your explanation and move on to the good stuff – your accomplishments, qualifications, and how you’ll use your talents to solve the company’s problems.
Emphasize your positive attributes. Shift the conversation to your abilities and skills, and make sure to tie them to the qualifications listed in the job description.
Avoid the word “fired.” Remember that an interview is partially a sales pitch. Market yourself by avoiding terms that have a negative association for many people. Use phrases like “let go” and "the company and I parted ways" instead of words like “fired.”
Don’t focus on the negative. Now’s not the time to belittle or bath-mouth your former boss/employer – even if they deserve it. Keep things positive.
Lastly - Avoid listing the manager/ supervisor who let you go, as a reference. Although work-related references are better, if those aren’t available to you, choose other references who have been influential to your career path. If you are involved in any community and volunteer groups, someone there could be a reference for you, as well. If you aren’t too far out of school, you could also use a professor as a reference.
If you voluntarily stepped away from a position, were forced to resign or gave notice before leaving your previous position, visit: Why did you resign from your previous position?
For members of InterviewSuccessFormula.com, visit your Overcome Objections Guide for additional strategies.
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