Giving a Reason for Leaving a Company When You Were Terminated

Focus on What You Learned

To make a better impression in an interview, talk about what you learned from your job termination. Employers want to see growth and maturity in job candidates. If you realize your mistakes, discuss how you plan to handle the situation differently in the future. For example, if your employer fired you because of constant tardiness, explain to your employer what you learned from coming into work late and what steps you plan to take so that it is not a problem for your future employer.

Although getting fired from a job may lead to some embarrassment, the best thing you can do is tell the truth about the situation. If you know your performance or attitude needed improvement, say that to the recruiter. If you lie to an employer and the truth is discovered later, the lie causes you to appear unprofessional and untrustworthy. You do not need to go into every single detail regarding your firing, but you should answer questions directly. Keep your answers brief and only disclose as much information as needed.

Even if your feel like your former employer fired you without justification, avoid speaking negatively about previous employers in your interview. Focusing on positives shows the recruiter that you handle difficult situations in a positive manner. However, this doesn’t mean that you should take all of the blame unnecessarily. Employers should show accountability for their actions but shouldn’t absorb the blow unjustly.

Employers want job candidates who are confident in their abilities to perform the job and add value to the company. To improve your confidence, practice your explanation of the reasons why you were terminated. Give your answers without showing bitterness or disdain for your last employer. Some employers look more closely at the attitude of fired job candidates than at the reasons behind the termination. You should pay close attention to how you deliver your answers. Focus on speaking in a calm manner.