How to Explain Being Fired in a Job Interview: The Answer to "Why Did You Leave Your Last Job" That Turns a Deal-Breaker Into a Job Offer

About this episode

This episode provides strategies for discussing being fired in job interviews without jeopardizing future opportunities.

Most people who've been fired walk into their next interview dreading one question above all others: "So why did you leave your last position?" I've been on both sides of that question. As a former HR leader, where I've fired hundreds of people, and also as an employee who was fired during my career. I even made the mistake of telling interviewers I was laid off instead and it almost cost me everything. In this episode, we break down exactly how to answer the fired question honestly, without setting off alarm bells or tanking your chances. We'll cover the specific language to use, the psychology behind why it works, a simple three-part story framework that turns a potential disaster into a demonstration of self-awareness, and when to bring in expert help before it costs you an offer. If you've been fired and have interviews coming up, this episode is the prep you actually need. What you'll learn Why lying about being fired (even just saying "laid off") is a risk that can end a job offer after it's already been made The three-part story framework I used after being fired that led to multiple job offers without misleading anyone How to present the circumstances of being fired so…

People in this episode

Host: Scott Anthony Barlow

Topics covered

• job interviews
• being fired
• career advice
• self-awareness
• storytelling
• job search

Keywords

• fired
• job interview
• career change
• self-awareness
• story framework
• job offers
• interview questions

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Happen To Your Career: An Unconventional Approach To Career Change and Meaningful Work

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