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What if you were fired from a previous position? It is very difficult to know how to answer interview questions around the topic of dismissal.
Recommended interview techniques for handling this tough interview question emphasize the importance of demonstrating that you are able to look at the dismissal objectively. For example, if the problem was a conflict with your manager, discuss it using the pronoun "we" to show that you accept joint accountability for the problem as in the example below. "We were unable to work effectively together." Show how you have taken time to critically evaluate what happened. You want the interviewer to view you as a candidate who has learned and grown from your mistakes. For example: "I have thought about this a great deal and I can understand now what went wrong. I did not have a clear understanding of the task expectations. I should have asked for further clarification. I have learned from this and am positive about being able to make a valuable contribution to this organization."
Be aware of your tone and body language. Avoid crossed arms, hunching down in your chair, looking down and not making eye contact. These all give a defensive, closed message to the interviewer. Spend the minimum amount of time when you answer interview questions on this topic, but make sure that you have clarified the issue for the interviewer. Once you have completed your explanation, end with: "I trust that I have addressed your concerns."
Acknowledging that the interviewer has a genuine concern but suggesting that you have now dealt with this allows you to continue with a more positive line of questioning. Trying to defend yourself usually results in an an awkward and prolonged discussion on a negative issue that can compromise the whole job interview. Deal with it in an honest and neutral way and move on. Spend your time in the job interview discussing the contribution you can make to the position and company. Everyone can improve somehow. Some very successful people have been fired during the course of their careers. Knowing how to answer interview questions about this by emphasizing what you have learned from the experience and believing in yourself as the right candidate for the job will help convince the interviewer to believe in you too. Interviewers also ask a number of typical interview questions. Use the sample answers to help you prepare excellent responses to these job interview questions. Return from How to Answer Interview Questions to Best Job Interview |
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