Fired (Unfairly)
We're sorry to hear you were laid off from a previous position!
Always try to keep in mind that being a victim of getting let go, is not uncommon and you are not alone. Great leaders, talented CEO's and most likely even the interviewers you will face in your job search journey, have all been let go at some point in their lives.
Do not let it discourage you.
Beyond the circumstances of your dismissal, the interviewer is looking to see how you cope with adversity.
Sure, first and foremost, they want to know that you weren’t fired for some egregious 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 – and demonstrate personal and professional growth.
A simple and reasonable explanation might be, "My department was short handed, so our new manager came in and restructured. As a result, I was let go. Turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Now I have an opportunity to explore jobs that better suit my qualifications and interests."
You don't have to describe it in detail (especially if it was particularly messy).
Here are a few additional examples:
“My family was desperate financially and I took a less than suitable position without looking around the corner. I won't make that mistake again. I'd prefer an environment that is congenial, structured and team-oriented, where my best talents can shine and make a substantial contribution."
"I outlasted several company downsizings but this last one included me. Sign of the times, I guess."
"My job was outsourced. Which was too bad because people familiar with my work say it is superior and very fairly priced."
"The job really shifted directions, so my boss and I agreed that it was time for me to move on to a position that would better suit my talents and provide a bigger return for both of us. So here I am, ready to work."
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.
Additional Resources: