This question is the one that most people worry about if they were fired from their last job. If you weren’t, then just explain that you were not fired, and the interviewer will ask you more about the circumstances in which you left, which I will address under the relevant heading. If you WERE fired, it’s not the end of the world. You can turn most things positive when the need arises! I would advise if you were fired for doing something really very bad such as stealing that you seek professional advice on answering this question. However, I will give some more typical answers.
Example Answers
1-
“I was fired because I didn’t hit the targets that my employer set. However I feel that the reason for that is because the product itself didn’t have a great reputation, it was a very hard sell, and the morale in the office was low generally. Staff turnover was very high as many people failed to hit the targets. Many left due to the conditions. I am confident I will hit targets for you as in all my other posts as salesman I have exceeded my targets, and your products are internationally recognised as fantastic quality and value for money.”
2-
“I was fired from my last position because the firm decided to have a change of management, and the new manager already had a lot of people lined up for my job. I was asked to move to a department that I didn’t feel I was qualified to work in, and so I was fired. I did feel a little that I was pushed out of my job, but I am excited for a new opportunity now.”
3-
“I will be honest, I ran into some personal problems at home and they extended into my work life because I was unable to get into work as my ex-partner took my vehicle and the position was too far to get to by public transport. My employer wasn’t too sympathetic and fired me before I had the chance to resolve the issue. I have a new car now and I’m ready for a new challenge.”
4-
“Due to the current economic climate I was let go due to the company having to downsize and relocate office. I could not relocate at the time as I was caring for an elderly relative, so unfortunately I was fired.”
5-
“I was fired because my employers began to do something that I did not agree with and I refused to do. This was not a case of insubordination, what they were asking me to do was not legal, and would possibly have endangered lives. I will not disclose what that was, but because I maintained my integrity and refused, they fired me.”
photo by: ceciliadom
I have never been fired so this one is quite tough for me to answer. I would probably go with: Although I enjoyed the people and company I worked for, it didn’t suit my employers work expectations.
If this has happened to you, be prepared with your answer. Script it in advance of any interview.
The most important thing is to answer is directly and as briefly as possible. Do not lie.
Explain the reason why it happened. What were the reasons? Perhaps your skills or experience didn’t match, or there was a change in boss and he wanted someone different.
What you must do is take responsibility. Do not point the blame at anyone else. Take responsibility and explain what you’ve learnt from it. Identify what you’re doing positively to address the reasons why you were fired. It shows that you are taking responsibility for yourself.
You can turn what was a negative situation into a positive one.