Dear Diane,
I’m in the market for a new job opportunity after being unexpectedly let go from a startup. Their end of year numbers didn’t shape up as planned, and I was told I wasn’t a good fit for their new direction. How would you recommend I handle interview questions about why I no longer work there?Thanks,
Josh T.
Dear Josh,
You may be surprised to learn your question is one I commonly receive from my readers. A thoughtful answer to “Why were you fired?” or “Why did you leave your last job?” will help you shine as the ideal candidate. The wrong response can cost you the job, as it offers revealing clues about your judgment, personality, character and discretion.
Here are 7 tips to keep in mind as you prep for your interview.
Keep It Positive
Regardless of your motive in looking for a new job, demonstrate an optimistic attitude. There are many good reasons to seek a new career path: a desire to learn new skills, take on new challenges and the pursuit of growth opportunities. Give specific reasons why you would be the perfect fit for the job. Don’t overlook volunteer and intern positions as experiences to showcase.
Be Truthful
Never lie, even if you were fired. Prospective employers will likely understand the ups and downs of the startup path. Talk about what you learned from the experience and how the knowledge you gained will benefit you going forward. Answering openly and honestly shows integrity, responsibility and resiliency.
Avoid Badmouthing Your Previous Boss
You will be marked as a loose cannon that could potentially do the same to the next employer. Negative talk about management or colleagues makes you look like someone who is difficult or high maintenance.
Choose the Right Words
Show some finesse, using diplomacy and good judgment: “I’ve learned a lot in the last three years, but I’m ready to find a position that offers room to grow and is a better fit for my skill set and interests.” Embracing the chance to take on new challenges or to work for a company you are really excited about shows initiative and motivation.
Be Prepared to Talk About Specific Accomplishments
There is no room for humility here. Assertively explain (not aggressively) how your direct efforts have benefitted the company you are leaving. Use statistics, numbers and concrete examples whenever possible.
Focus On More than the Money
Don’t leave the impression that you are strictly in it for the paycheck. Interviewers want candidates who will be a good culture fit. Express why you are interested in the specific position beyond what it might pay. The conversation around compensation will present itself in due time.
Rehearse
Practice giving your answer out loud so you are comfortable and confident in your reply. Especially when the question is, “Why were you fired?” Be ready with, “We had some differences to work through and ultimately, it was best for everyone to reorganize the department. I learned a great deal during my tenure with XXX Company.”
Good luck,
Diane
You may also find Questions to Avoid Asking During a Job Interview helpful. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, visit her blog, read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on Huff Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.
