How to Answer
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If you were clearly dismissed from your job and not laid off because of a retrenchment-type process then it is best to be open and honest in giving the reasons for your employment dismissal.
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It is also likely that this will be explored in an employment background check or a verbal reference check, so the situation should not be misrepresented in the job interview. Try to present the dismissal in neutral terms. Recommended interview techniques for handling this tough issue 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 I am positive about being able to make a valuable contribution to this organization."
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The ability to take accountability and to adapt demonstrates a maturity and professionalism that the interviewer is looking for in the successful job candidate. When considering how to answer interview questions about being fired prepare a response that you feel comfortable with. Practice saying it calmly and confidently and rewrite it if necessary. |
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 know how to answer interview questions that are frequently asked in job interviews.
Go to The Behavioral Interview to prepare for frequently asked behavioral interview questions.
Competency Based Interview Questions
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