If you've ever been fired, this question is probably the
one interview question you dread the most. Not only have
you had a bad experience, but you have to talk about it –
again and again. How you deal with this question in your
interviews will depend a lot on how you have resolved the
issue with yourself. In order to answer the question
effectively it will be important to deal with it ahead of
time by scripting an answer.
Here are examples of how two candidates answer the question:
Candidate #1
"I had a great boss, but he left. From the very beginning
it was clear that my new boss and I were going to be at
odds. We just had different types of personalities. She
kept changing the rules. One day she would want it this
way, and the next day another way," rambled Karen. "I don't
usually have problems with bosses but this woman was really
overbearing in her management approach."
This is not the best way to present the situation. This
candidate could be classified as a "whiner." Badmouthing
former employers during the interview is a bad idea. No one
wants to hear about someone else's shortcomings,
particularly someone they don't even know.
Candidate #2
"I was fired after a major reorganization. The merging of
different cultures had caused a major change in the way
things were done. There were some differences of opinion
between my boss and myself and, in the end, I was fired. I
take responsibility for my part in the way things turned
out. I learned a lot from the experience, and in
retrospect, I would have handled it differently. But, that
is behind me now, and I am ready to move on with a new
perspective."
This is a much better answer because it demonstrates
strength and self-confidence. Candidate #2 takes
responsibility and deals with the question honestly.
Scripting
Whether you were fired under unfair circumstances, or for
something you did that you regret, write down your
thoughts, and how you would answer this question. Read your
script aloud, or use a tape recorder, and practice until
you like what you hear. Better yet, answer the question for
someone else in a mock interview. Have him or her observe
your interview technique - body language, eye contact,
comfort-level while answering this question. Feedback from
someone else will help you improve your presentation.
References
It is very important to find out what your former
boss/company will say, or not say, about you if called for
a reference. Whatever they say it should be in sync with
the answer you give. Despite the firing, if, you left under
terms that were agreeable, check with your former employer
to find out what you can expect.
Lying
Probably the worst way to handle this question is by lying.
One lie usually leads to another, and before you know it
you are in over your head. You always take a chance
whenever you put a lie on an application. The application
usually has a signature line on the back where you sign,
stating that the above is true, and that any false
statements could be grounds for termination.
Perspective
It is a fact that "people get fired everyday." They move on
and get new job. And, you will too. No matter what the
circumstances, put it behind you and move on. Deal with
your feelings about the firing, and prepare your answer to
the question before it is asked. Being prepared will make
you feel more confident and less emotional about the
situation.
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Carole Martin, America's #1 Interview Coach, is a
celebrated author, trainer, and mentor. Carole can give you
interviewing tips like no one else can. Get a copy of her
FREE 9-part "Interview Success Tips" report by visiting
Carole on the web at The Interview Coach
http://www.interviewcoach.com
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