Previously Fired
The fact that you were previously fired from a job should not affect your ability to do the job you're interviewing for. When applying for a job, your qualifications should get you an interview. Be prepared though, the hiring authority will want to know a little about why you were terminated from the job and be assured that whatever the problem was, it does not become a problem here. Lying about your past is a sure way NOT to get hired or be fired again after you're hired.
Keep these thoughts in mind -
-Don't confuse falling with failing
- everyone stumbles
-"What you're going to do" is get your confidence back!
-Be honest about what happened - what did you learn?
-Don't blame and don't be angry- that is the worst
offense
-Bring what you learned to the new job - the best strategy
Here are some thinks you might say during a job interview to smooth out the rough edges of a termination.
-Being cut loose was a blessing in disguise. I now have an opportunity to explore jobs that better suit my qualifications and interests. I've examined your requirements and I think my skills are a match.
-My competencies were not the right match for my previous employer's needs but it looks like they'd be a good fit in your organization. In addition to marketing and advertising, would skills in promotion be valued here?
-Although circumstances caused me to leave my first job, I was very successful in school and got along well with both students and faculty. Perhaps I didn't fully understand my boss's expectations or why he released me so quickly before I had a chance to prove myself.
-The job wasn't working out so my boss and I agreed that it was time for me to move on to a position that would show a better return for both of us. I've learned some valuable lessons, such as gaining a clear understanding of expectations before too much time has passed.
-After thinking about why I left, I realize I should have done some things differently. That job was a learning experience and I think I'm wiser in the area of goal setting and success measurements. I'd like the chance to prove that to you.
-A new manager came in and cleaned house in order to bring in members of his old team. I won't fault him for that, but it made me realize that there were better opportunities elsewhere for me.
-Certain personal problems, which I now have solved, unfortunately upset my work life. These problems no longer exist and I'm up and running strong to exceed expectations in my new job.
-I wanted my career to move in a different direction, and I guess my mental separation set up the conditions that led to my departure. But by contrast, the opportunity we're discussing seems to be made for me and I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility.
-I usually hit it off very well with my bosses, but my previous employer and I and I just didn't get along. I'm not sure why, but our poor relationship has been an exception to what I typically experience with bosses.
-My job was offshored to India. That's too bad because people familiar with my work say it is superior and fairly priced.
-I outlasted several downsizings but the last one included me. Sign of the times, I guess.
-I was desperate for work and took the wrong job without checking things out. I've done my research this time and 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.