She was fired. How to interview?
She was fired. How to interview?Hi Ronnie Ann! Please help me. I don’t know how to interview after being fired. I was terminated from my job, nearly a year ago, because I decided to take a stand. There were some very questionable things going on within management.
Since it affected the employees and the company in a very negative way, I started a petition within my department regarding the issues. And more than half of the employees signed it. Then I submitted a letter, along with the petition to the compliance department.
My efforts got remarkable attention — resulting in a visit from the President of the company that included a one-on-one interview with everyone in the department. In the end, half of management was terminated. And that included me.
Her efforts may have hurt her
I imagine they were uncomfortable with me staying there considering what I knew. The much needed change that was due to that particular department was granted because of my actions. So I am very happy that the employees have a better place to work. Some of them had no positive outlet, including no high school diplomas. They had no way out.
After taking some time, I recently began seeking employment as a legal assistant and have gotten several call backs for interviews. How do I explain my termination without scrutinizing the company?
~~ Zandria
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Handling interview fired question
Hi Zandria!
First let me congratulate you on taking action that sounds like it wound up helping many employees. Clearly, this was a tough thing to do, and most people would have been afraid to take a stand like this. So I applaud you for wanting to make a difference.
Sadly, it resulted in your departure – most companies just don’t feel comfortable keeping people who have taken such action. Even if in the end the company benefits. While I’m sorry about that for your sake, I hope your next job will make up for all of it!
Less can be more in interviews
That said … there is no reason to mention any of the specific circumstances in your interviews. Nowadays, because of possible legal implications, most companies will not reveal details like this when contacted for references. Also, I would assume the company would rather not have its dirty laundry discussed in public.
So I’d guess they’re hoping you don’t mention it either. In the slim event they do talk about it as part of a reference check, then you might want to have a talk with your former employer to explain that you are not discussing the details. And that you’d appreciate the same courtesy. No guarantee, but worth a shot
Interview focus after being fired
Your best bet is to emphasize the good things. And simply explain that there was a reorganization in which a layer of management was let go (or some such explanation). Be casual about the whole thing. And keep your answer to this question short and sweet.
The less mentioned about the actual details the better. Main thing is to show only good will toward your former employer. Interviewers know that one day you might be leaving them, and they like to hire people who won’t tell dirt!
Emphasize positive where possible
Although your termination was part of a reorganization, CVTips.com has some thoughts that apply to any termination that wasn’t of one’s own choice. In their post, Answering the Interview Question: Why Were You Fired?, they emphasize being open in your answers:
“While trying to give a pleasant-to-hear answer do not hide the real reasons, i.e. if the company was going through financial problems, or if they were downsizing and found your position expendable, do not feel ashamed to say so. Emphasize how much you learnt from the past experience in the job and how much you look forward to move on. This will establish you as a mature person.”
Again, that doesn’t mean you need to tell them the whole story. Just be open and direct about the fact that a reorganization happened and you were let go as part of the process. It’s such a common story nowadays, unless you make it into a big deal, a simple answer and a comfortable smile will suffice.
The main thing is to emphasize that you’re looking forward to starting a new job in a company like this one. (It doesn’t hurt to have a few reasons why you are especially excited about this particular company.)
Time gap after being fired?
The bigger question for me is “What have you been doing in the last year since you were let go?” There is a one-year gap that, when coupled with a termination, could raise an eyebrow or two. Make sure you have a good answer that a new employer will be comfortable with.
If you’ve done any volunteer work in that time or taken time to help a family member, be prepared to talk a little about that in a way that emphasizes your good qualities. And it never hurts to rehearse in front of a mirror or with a friend just to get comfortable with all the details of what you want to say.
Just make sure you can still sound natural, as an employer is more interested in seeing the real you than hearing a “perfect” canned answer!
Follow your strengths!
The fact that you already have some interviews is a very good sign. You might even consider looking for a job within a union or labor law firm since you seem to have the spirit.
Just know that these things happen to most of us. Simply focus on what you have to tell that makes you a great hire and a good fit for the company. Leave the rest in the past where it belongs!
Good luck, Zandria. I wish you all the best in your new job.
~ Ronnie Ann
More posts to help
How To Answer “Why You Left Your Job” When You Quit
Job Search Blues: Will I EVER Find a Job?
So Many Mistakes! How Do I Start My Career Over?
What Is Age Discrimination in Employment?
Is Your Online Reputation Hurting Your Job Search?
What Are Transferable Skills?
15 Job Search Tips To Help You Get a Job
18 Practical Tips to Help You Ace Your Job Interview
15 Things I Look for When I Interview People
After the Job Interview: Why Haven’t They Called Me Yet?
Job Interview Nerves? Tips for Before, During & After
12 Ways to Stay Sane After a Job Interview
About the author…
Ronnie Ann, founder of Work To the Wise and Work Coach Cafe, bases her real-world advice on her many years as an organizational consultant where she helped interview and hire people, added to a certificate from NYU in Career Planning & Development, as well as her many adventures as a serial job seeker.
HI,
I was terminated from a job almost four years ago. I was terminated after exhausting my FMLA, my daughter has graves disease and I’m a single parent (meaning I was the only one responsible for her health). Thank God!! she’s been fine for over three years, because the drs were successful putting her thyroid to sleep, so at this point her health will no longer be an issue with my attendance (as I pray things stay the same). For the past three years, I’ve worked for myself. Due to a lack of work I am now trying to reenter corporate America. How do I explain my termination. I want to be truthful, this company requires me to sign a release for past employers. I also don’t want to provide too much information and scare them out of giving me the job. Please help!!
Hi Toni,
Glad to hear that your daughter is doing well now!
I doubt anyone will remember – or provide – specific details about your departure from their organization over 3 years ago.
I would simply state that you felt that you wanted to try running your own business, which you did for 3 years. But, while you found establishing and running your own business to be an excellent learning experience, you prefer to work for an employer where you can make a meaningful contribution without needing to do all the things required to keep a small business operating successfully.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
I was terminated 2 mos ago from my job of 4 years due to performance issues. The performance issues were a combination of major personal issues (caregiver of mom dx w/lung cancer, foreclosures, head on car accident, fall resulting in broken foot and leg, etc.) The high level of anxiety and stress caused memory, learning, concentration and distractabiltiy issues resulting in the poor performance. A year before I was terminated I did take a leave of absence and had been working with doctors and undergoing neurotesting, my FMLA ran out and my insurance was terminated. I had no choice but to return to work with these unresolved medical conditions. My performance did not improve and I went back to the doctors as soon as my medical was reinstated at the first of the year. I did not have enough time with them to determine if I had limitations before I was terminated due to the performance. I do not know how to handle the question about being terminated and I do not feel that the medical issues have resolved. Being unemployed and a single parent with no family or support system has not helped the stress/anxiety. I am actually terrified of interviewing for any position because I’m afraid no matter what job I apply for that the same problems may still be there. What do I do? I have to find work so t hat I can support my two children. I am on unemployment because I could provide the documentation that the performance was not due to misconduct. I have two young children I need to support so I have to find some way to work. By the way, to complicate matters even more, I am an HR professional. Although my employer granted a leave of absence and was aware that I was having medical issues they seemed to gloss over the medical issues when I was terminated and just focused on the performance which was the result of my medical issues but they won’t acknowledge that. I don’t know how to overcome this hurdle, I feel I am in a quandary that I can’t get out of. Prior to this last position I worked at a major Fortune 500 company in my state for 23 years without incident. My position was one of 45 eliminated in my department in early 2007 when the economy took it’s initial downturn. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Rilee,
Wow, that sounds like a lot to deal with…You are not alone. I have heard of individuals in your situation before.
Here are my recommendations:
1. Scout out local support organizations/community associations that receive donations from the United Way. The United Way reviews organizations, and often has a comprehensive list of organizations that support community members.
Don’t be afraid to seek help.
2. Find people who can be a support to you.
One organization I recommend is the “Job Accommodation Network” which provides assistance and advice to people with disabilities — it sounds like the things you encountered with your accident would help.
3. Consider joining a job club. Here’s a directory of them.
4. If you need fresh ideas on your strategy, you may want to seek out the advice provided in the book “No One is Unemployable.”
Good luck!
All the Best,
Chandlee
my interview is schedule in overseas bank next week.Please suugest me how do i explain about my termination to overseas recuiter
i received termination due to misconduct from bank.Misconduct was due to mismatch in work experience.i am looking for jobs in banking sector.Is their any chance of getting jobs in private bank like icici/hdfc/hsbc.Kindly update about their hr policy
Sanjiv,
As we do not work for the companies you mention, we cannot provide information about how they hire and their HR policy.
In general, if you have been terminated for misconduct within an industry, it is wise to consider alternate roles — or an alternate industry altogether. Suggest you consult with an attorney or HR expert for information on the type of information that will be shared with employers when you apply for jobs. We cannot provide this advice to you.
In the course of a career, most people are fired at least once. Do not despair, you can recover — but it may take time and require a change in roles and expectations.
Best of luck,
Chandlee
at the time of appointment i have given work experience mention in resume and proof they required.i have 4years of experience with three company my one company period of work was wrong.in termination letter given by icici bankstates that we refer to declaration submitted by you in support of your candidature while joining the service of bank on verification your previous work experience are found to be false.in view of the above act of yours whereby you have willfully suppressed and presented false material facts your services are hereby terminated with immediate effect in terms of employment contract applicable yo you.
Rightnow looking for jobs in banking sector and my interview in going to happen in next week.Kindly suggest me for interview and chance to win.Chance of success in same industry.
I was terminated after becoming sick and having gall bladder surgery. I was in the first few months of employment and not eligible for FMLA, so my boss told me to just take as much time as I needed. Two months later, I was let go and now they are fighting my unemployment saying they can let me go for any reason. Plus, I can’t find a job because if you say you had surgery and were let go for taking too much time off no one wants you. Help!
Hello,
About a month and a half ago I was fired at a job I worked at for 4 years as a Receptionist for accidently misplacing a piece of mail and it ending up getting sent overseas. I have an interview next week and after stumbling around the topic in previous interviews, I’m thinking of just telling them just the way it is. Something like:
“One of my duties as a receptionist was to sort and distribute mail and one day a peice of mail was accidently placed in the wrong office and I was let go as a result. However, I learned now to always double check and even, triple check everything I do to avoid making these kinds of mistakes again. I do believe I’m a very hard worker and I am looking forward to a chance to prove myself should I get hired for this position.”
How does this sound? Please give me any suggestions you may have on how I can word it better. Thank you very much for your help.
Hi axwilli6!
I’m sorry for what you’re going through, but I don’t have better advice to offer than what is written in this post and some of the links I included. In a resume, terminated is never used – but in a job application, you have to tell the truth because of background checks and since you can be fired later for lying.
Here’s a similar post that might help.
I Got Fired for Reading Patient Records. What Do I Say in a Job Interview?
We all make mistakes. The key is how you handle things and how you can show you’ve learned and are ready to commit 100% to the new employer. For now, try reading all these articles and the related links and you will find your best approach – there’s no way to undo what was done. As I say…it’s now about how you handle it. I hope you have some good references to help make your case.
Good luck.
~ Ronnie Ann
i was fired from a job that i worked for 13 yearsi am in the healthcare field. i don’t want to use the word terminated on my job application. i dont know if this employer will say anything nice about me. i was fired due to a family’s complaint against me
Hi Sam!
Unfortunately, the details do matter here. If the misconduct was misappropriating funds, you will have trouble getting bonded ever again here and that will make a job in banking tough. But if it’s something of a less serious nature – although of course policies must be followed – you may have a chance. (The fact that you’re on good terms with your manager and unit head is very hopeful to me.)
Of course, I am NOT in a position to give you advice, but since you have good references and since, in most cases that do not reach a criminal level, HR errs on the side of saying less rather than more ;-), it might be at least worth a shot here. No matter when you come back, this may need to be faced since most employers here do extensive background checks. So why not give yourself reasonable time to try again to see if you can face it now and get past it?
Again…I’m not advising you, just offering a different perspective. I think the hardest thing for you may be facing your own shame at having made a mistake that cost you your job. We all make mistakes, Sam. I’ve made whoppers and still gotten back on my feet!
If you stay positive and sincerely explain you made a one-time policy/procedural error, still have good references from the firm, and have since learned big time from your mistake, then you do indeed have a chance. ( Focus on the learning and what you can offer the new firm.)
As I always say…it’s all in how you tell your story. Also a good time to ask your family and friends to suggest networking contacts. It will give you a leg up in your job search.
Best of luck, Sam. Please let us know what happens. And love your positive attitude! 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I was terminated last month ( May 2010) from a bank on the grounds of not abiding the set process and policies(misconduct). It was very unfortunate incident. I have worked with this bank for the past 2 years and have grown within the bank. I was promoted to Team leader from relationship officer position. I have been highly dedicated and committed to my work and have always overachieved the targets.
My managers and unit head are supportive and are willing to give positive reference about me to prospective employers.
My concern is Should i be applying for jobs with other banks. The suggestions i have received is that most of the banks will have HR reference checks and when contacted my HR would tell them that i was terminated for misconduct. They would not give the details as to how unfortunate it was for me.
I am thinking to go back to my home country and work there for a year or so and then come back again.
I am really very upset and was looking forward to grow. Having said that i am still positive but i am not sure whether prospective employers will understand my plight.
Since you have been banker yourself, kindly advice me what best should be done.
Regards,
Sam
Oh Erica! I’m so sorry. I can’t even begin to tell you how upset I am to read this. But then again, I’m sure you’re a lot more upset! 😉
I’m not an expert on this particular subject – especially when it comes to current financial institution polices. I would think it matters by region of the country as well as individual institution. All the more reason to find a champion/mentor/ networking contact to make your case. And if you haven’t already done it, make sure you get a note added to EACH of the three credit score companies records for you.
Here is a post with some more thoughts and links I hope will help:
Will My Low Credit Score Ruin My Chances for a Job Offer?
Best of luck, Erica. Please let us know how it goes. And may I add…congratulations on working things out. Says a lot about you and I hope employers recognize that.
~ Ronnie Ann
I was fired today from a financial institution because of a negative balance in my checking account. My husband and I had some money issues we were trying our best to figure out, and we finally had…….but then I slipped up. Everything else was going great with my job…..had been there over two years, was good at it too. I understand why they let me go. When you work with money on a daily basis, they want you to be responsible with your own. I get it. But how do i go on from here? Money problems are figured out, would another financial institution consider me? I’ve never been fired before.
Hi Confidential!
There are several articles on this blog that offer suggestions as to how to address these types of situations. Please browse the Popular Posts, Work Coach Cafe search, and categories, etc. to help you with the approach.
Basically, the idea is to be honest (without details) about there being some differences of opinion or whatever, and then to recover by showing this has never happened before – you have great references and experience, etc.
Always make sure you stay positive about your former employer – no matter what – and spend most of your response on showing why you are a great fit for this new company. (There’s too many possible nuances to address fully in a comment answer, but I hope you get the idea.)
My only additional thought is whether you might want to speak to an employment lawyer. You may have a case and/or you might need some good legal advice – just in case.
I wish you all the best!
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi Work Coach!
My company decided to “part ways” with me 2 months ago and I’m still confused as to how I can explain this moving forward.
In short, I was asked by my supervisor to report any wrong doings from a particular troubled employee to her while she was away. I did…and my message to her was intercepted. I was told this was a violation of company policy. I was also told “this issue is bigger than me” so it sounds like the company might be in hot water and I happen to be the fall guy or example. Immediately afterwards, my position was eliminated (along with others) which leads many to believe this was the plan all along.
I have enormous experience and have had great success in my career which makes for an attractive resume. What should I say to future interviewers?
Thanks!!
Hi Sue!
Basically, you don’t bring it up unless asked – especially since you’ve had a good job experience since then and hopefully have good references too. But if asked, just read this post and comments again to offer some guidance about how to keep your answer honest and yet positive. Also,o you might find some good ideas in some of my other posts on this topic:
Some articles that mention reasons for leaving your last job
Please take the time to browse and read until you find something that works for you.
Best of luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
I was terminated in April from a job I worked at for 5 years for alleged misconduct. I am going to interview for a job shortly, what do I tell them about that?? I have since worked at a store and had no problems and I have a solid work history and have no other “red” flags on my resume.
Please help
I so understand Nikki. Human beings are motivated by positive feedback. But job searches are filled with frustration and it takes a lot to keep going. I hope it helps to know I get comments all the time from people who pushed through the frustration – and seemingly endless lack of response or turn-downs – and finally got a good job. In fact, I’m waiting to hear about Matthew, someone who will very probably hear good news tonight about a great job – after months and months of seriously awful experiences
What’s that saying? When the going gets tough, the tough get going. In this market especially, persistence (paired with great job search techniques) pays off. So does hearing you are doing a good job and I know you can do it. You are and I do. 😉
When you work with a coach, she or helps you set goals. So maybe you might want to set yourself a few goals like number of new networking contacts per week, number of informationals per week, number of new jobs you applied to, improvements you made to your basic resume and cover letter (which you of course customize to each job’s stated needs) etc. And feel free to let us know how it’s going. Sometimes it helps to just have people on your side.
Maybe these will help too:
12 Ways to Stay Sane After a Job Interview
I Got the Post Interview Temporary OCD Blues
Best of luck, Nikki!
~ Ronnie Ann
Thank you so much for responding. Now I just need to get motivated again and start filling out some applications. I get motivated…Fill out a bunch of applications…Then I get discouraged when I don’t get any responses. Thanks again. I will let you know when I get a J.O.B.!!!
Hi Nikki!
Where have you been all MY life? Thanks for at least considering my sanity before going ahead and asking your question anyway. 😉 (And Nikki…you are so right about that details thing. Sometimes when I get a looooooong question filled with details – even though it touches my heart and I want to help – I have to stop and take a loooooooong breath before deciding whether to answer.)
And now…back to your question which I will try to answer in a way that helps. The short answer is: You don’t need to mention any of this in an application. This is to be explained (if needed) in the actual interview. On an application if they ask reason for leaving, you simply say something like “Left to pursue better opportunity.”
The real trick is…what to say in the interview. If it’s an interview for a 911 operator elsewhere, then you better have a VERY good reason. Otherwise, come up with a reason that fits nicely with the exact job you are now applying for – like “I am looking for more challenge (or more specific reason this is so right if possible) and that’s why this opportunity is so exciting to me.”
Or you can simply say something about realizing it was not a good fit and deciding to look for something that better matches who you are – and then have a few things to mention that again fits exactly with this new job but not the other one.
Or you can be even more direct and just say you realized you made a mistake and it was better for everyone if you moved on. Then add the lesson you learned (always a good thing) such as “I used that opportunity to help me figure out what would be a good fit and that’s why I’m especially interested in…” You get the idea.
Make sure you can explain what you learned about yourself and what you now know is the right type of job for you. (If you haven’t done this, good time to do so.)
Now only you can decide which approach feels most comfortable. The realer and closer to the truth, the better your chances. Making a mistake is not bad…but learning from it and showing you are committed and determined to make this next opportunity work will help you get past any of the negatives. But also remember the less time you spend talking about what went wrong and instead focus the interview on what you offer that works for this new employer, the better your chances. And also – if possible – have some examples (stories) that show times you succeeded (esp. with things that better match who you are.)
Finally (just between us)…here’s what I hate about short questions…the answers are not always equally short. But fear not…sanity preserved. Now go get yourself a great job, Nikki!
I wish you the best of luck. Please let us know what happens. Uh…a brief note will do. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
WORK COACH!!! Where have you been my entire life? I thought I finally found a coach offering the guidence I SO need. I guess your sanity is more important than my nagging question. But I’m going to ask anyway 🙂
I began the training program to become a TCO (911 operator) at a police department in March 2009. Three months later, while still in training, I decided to quit. I’m sure my boring details as to why I quit would fall in to the “driving you insane” category. So to make a long story short, I was not advancing in the training program. I tried so hard to learn everything and do well. I’m not sure if it was me, or the training program that failed.
My question is: How do I say all of this on a application? I cannot put I failed, or they failed, or that I tried but failed…..what do I say? Im at a loss. Any advice? Please?
Hi Amy!
Sorry that you’re going through this. Curious if you knew what you were doing was not ok. That’s a question you might be asked and so it’s important to have a good answer – and make sure you end your answer on a positive note. Glad you’re paying it back, of course. Important to clean these things up. 🙂
Unfortunately I can’t answer all your questions. Partly because I’d need to know more and partly because I just can’t set a precedent of answering so many questions from readers or I would go bonkers! 😉
I hope this post will help with the general idea of what you need to know:
I Got Fired for Reading Patient Records. What Do I Say in a Job Interview?
As awful as things like this may feel, nice thing is they give us life wisdom we’d never get from a book or blog. That may sound corny, but I don’t know anyone – including me for sure – who hasn’t made mistakes. It’s what we do afterward that matters in the long run!
Good luck, Amy.
Oh…and you might not want to leave your whole name on blogs. It can come back to bite you since it’s all searchable! (I’ll edit your original comment to help.)
Good luck.
~ Ronnie Ann
I was confronted by loss prevention at work yesterday because i had been using store coupons that weren’t valid with my purchases. They decided not to press any charges or to have the police involved because the amount wasn’t too much. My store manager decided to suspend me until he spoke with the district manager. I wrote a statement stating i would repay them back.
My questions are:
-If i am suspended, should I just give them a letter resigning from work?
-Could i just tell them i will no longer work for them even though i still need to pay the money back to them?
-If i am suspended from work or fired, will it be in my background check ? And what exactly is written on the background check ?
-Is it better to voluntarily quit without notice or to be fired?
Thank you!
Hi Barbara!
I am so sorry for all you have to deal with and how hard this has been for you. My heart goes out to you. If only I had a magic wand.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to make the past experience sound great…but you can try to approach it from honesty…to a point. It probably isn’t a good idea to talk about ALL the problems and things you deal with in an interview.
But before we talk interview…I want to mention something else. Although I’m not a doctor and am only offering my opinion, working those different shifts with all else you have to handle is not good for your body clock. It can’t catch up and you only get more tired. You’re probably saying DUH! I wouldn’t do it unless I had to. But it just won’t work, I think – and so in the long run you’ll only feel like you failed again.
I have faith you can do a much better job if you decide to find one with a regular shift, that fits with your other obligations. I have no magic answers. You need to decide you will find a job that works and go after it with all your determination and belief in yourself that you will make it work this time.
As to what to specifically say…you need to be honest and say you had some family obligations that made the split shifts impossible to handle. But you’ve straightened that out now, and are determined to make this job work. Look them straight in the eye, smile gently and mean it. And leave it at that. Don’t go into details.
Talk about what the job will be like, what they want from you or anything else. An employer just wants to know you’re ready to do a good job. The rest is not as important. But you will need a good reference.
I know it’s not going to be easy – but I believe you can do it, Barbara. I wish you all the luck. Look deeply inside and know this time you will do all you can to make it work out for you. 😉
Ronnie Ann
And to my wonderful readers who try to watch out for me…I know I say I don’t answer questions like this in depth any more, but…well…I just had to this ONE time. 🙂
how do i answer why i left my last job when i was fired. for basically screwing up after 8 years working at the same job.
i was fired because i didn’t call or show up for work. i had the days mixed up. was under stress from working several weeks of three different shifts comsisting of third shift, second and first shifts in the same week. also i haven’t had two days off in a row in months. i was hired for the third shift, but was the constant fill in when someone wanted time off. plus the boss was a screamer. my parents are elderly. one suffers from alzheimers and the other one has cancer. how do i explain how exhausted i am . i should also state that the retail store i worked at was at the shore.
Hi Paula!
Although I had to stop answering each and every question in depth (to preserve my sanity), you might find this post helpful in coming up with a response for interviews:
I Got Fired for Reading Patient Records. What Do I Say in a Job Interview?
A few thoughts: After all those years of your being a loyal employee despite all the mergers, I can imagine how awful it was for you to be fired – especially at a tough time in your life when what you needed most was understanding. I’m so sorry.
As a former banker myself, I can tell you a bank has to take decisive action in such a circumstance, even if folks there didn’t really want to let you go. You were in a position of fiduciary responsibility and if they let you stay, they could fail an audit and be in serious trouble.
BUT, that said, most likely they would have liked to keep you on if they could and won’t say anything to jeopardize your finding a new job. Pick references whom you trust and just go out there knowing how good you are and how loyal you’ll be to the next company. (Also, have a good reason why you haven’t worked in almost a year. Family obligations are good. You also might come up with some volunteer work you did, if any, to fill the gap.)
Who knows…you may wind up in a place you like even better than the last job, which sounds like it was starting to wear on you anyway!
So often in my own life (and I have had MANY times where things went wrong), I found fate gave me a chance to start fresh even if I wasn’t going to undertake change on my own. This is a new beginning. Don’t look back…just know you have lots to offer and have learned from an unfortunate experience. We all do and it makes us stronger and smarter. 😉
Best of luck, Paula!
Ronnie Ann
I was terminated last July after being with the company for 28 yrs through mergers and acquisitions of 5 banks. I have always been a reputable person who got along well with my superiors as well as my peers and the staff that I managed. I was going through some personal issues at home that were consuming most of my time along with a highly stressful position of managing a staff, trying to meet sales goals, and my assistant manager who was undermining me without my knowledge. I was pressed for time as the auditors were due to arrive and teller audits were due in two days. I copied a tellers proof sheet from the previous day to use as that tellers audit for the month. The teller refused to sign it as she was instructed to do by my assistant. The teller then called and reported me to my supervisor and I was terminated the next day. I was not even given a chance to explain and no consideration was given to my 28 yrs. of ethical service. How do I explain this situation to anyone who might want to consider hiring me. I also wonder if the bank is telling potential employers calling for a reference that I did something unethical. Any suggestions?
Hi Amanda!
I am sooo sorry you had to go through this awful experience. Please don’t let it throw you. Just from the little you’ve told me, the company was not one you would ever want to work for. Really!
First and foremost…in the future, do not start work for a company that doesn’t discuss salary, hours, expectations, and benefits up front. You have a right to know all this before starting and possibly you came off as a bit wet behind the ears by not expecting more from them. These guys sounded like an outfit with questionable business practices and very well may have decided you are not “moldable” to their practices, which reflects WELL on you!
I would not bother including them on your resume since you never really worked there. Instead, go back to past bosses and/or professors and ask for some leads for REAL jobs. With your enthusiasm and commitment, you deserve a job that gives you real opportunity and not just double-talk. Don’t let their bad practices discourage you even a little!
Go out there and get the right job for YOU!
Good luck, Amanda. Please let us know how it goes.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I have found reading your posts throughout my job search has been extremely helpful! I acquired a sales job soon after graduation this past spring with a company that was experiencing extreme difficulties and downszing reguarly. Needless to say, it was an extremely stressful environment and one that was getting worse each day. So, after working things out financially, I left my position to dedicate myself completely to finding a job with more stability.
A few weeks ago, I applied to a job posting, was called the same day for an interview and offered the job two days later. The manager explained that I had the talent to be “molded” into this position and they would training me extensively to excel in this position. It almost seemed too good to be true. The first day on the job would show that it was. My boss never discussed my salary, hours, or general company information with me. Also, on my first day, aside for a general two-hour video, was offered no training, as he was out of the office most of the day. Instead I spent all of ten minutes with my boss and was left on my own to accomplish tasks i was originally told I would be trained to do. The second day my direct boss was out of the office and I had to learn of my salary and hours from a secretary and again offered no direction on training. At the end of my third day, my boss had a meeting with me about my progress so far and stated that he felt I had little talent in the field and offered me all the training he could. I was in total shock at this statement because I had barely been trained and was only in my position three days.
Needless to say, after three short days, my boss decided to re-post my job online and I was politely told to leave. I am extremely confused and blindsided as to where this came from as it was only my third day and I was working extremely hard to learn everything I could about the organization and my job on my own.
I would really like to pursue a career in this field because past bosses and professors told me I had extreme talent in this field. However, I don’t know how to handle explaining this position to future interviewers. Do I include the information about this job on a resume?
Any advice would be helpful. As this extremely strange and stressful situation has left me at a loss.
Thanks!
Amanda
Hi Samantha!
I’m so sorry you lost your job. The hardest thing is when we feel we didn’t deserve it.
Unfortunately, you’ll most likely have to discuss this in one way or the other in your interviews. So you’re wise to be thinking about this now.
Basically, when asked about why you left your last job, you want to be honest…but you also want to put yourself in the most positive light possible. Just know future employers don’t expect you to be perfect, especially if you show you know how to keep a good attitude and learn and grow from your mistakes.
I know you say that you don’t agree with your former boss, but it would be very helpful to go over the whole situation again and try to see it from your boss’s perspective. Really think about whether there was anything you could have done differently that you can now bring to the new job.
Before you yell at me 😉 there is method to my madness. The cardinal rule about interviewing is to never EVER put down your last boss or seem bitter. It will only make you look bad. The other rule is to take responsibility for what you did and how things turned out and don’t look like someone who blames others.
Basically, since you were fired and since they will be doing reference checks and you need your story to gel with what they hear, you want to tell that you were let go but also find a way to put a positive spin on whatever happened. And you need to really believe your answer (interviewers have keen radar), which is why I want you to think this through first and come up with something you can feel good about.
Three basic possible spins:
– You were doing really well (if that’s true) and had some successes (name them), but realized that there was a point where you weren’t checking in often enough with your boss to make sure you were meeting his expectations. You’ve learned a BIG lesson and now can’t wait to bring what you’ve learned to XYZ Company and show your new boss just how much you can offer the company.
– Although you tried your best, you realized the last job wasn’t a good match for you, so you’ve used this as an opportunity to think about what you really want. And this job is one that not only excites you (give reasons) but really feels like the right match (give reasons).
– You’ve thought about it a lot and, although you gave it your all, you realize now you could have done some things differently. But you believe that mistakes are there to learn from and feel excited that you can come to this new job having learned a big lesson. (Then you switch to talking about one aspect of the new job you’re most excited about so you end the answer with enthusiasm and a positive outlook.)
Of course, you need to find a variation that fits your actual circumstances. Or a combination of all three. But whatever you do, keep it positive both about yourself and your former employer. And make sure you have your own mind focused on what you bring to the new job and not what happened at the old one. We really do learn from the past and grow stronger.
Best of luck, Samantha. Please keep us posted on your interviews.
Ronnie Ann
Dear Work Coach!
I was recently terminated at the place where i worked where the reason was “unacceptable performace” but it was something i dont really agree to. However, with that said, I have an upcoming interview and I am not very sure how I should bring it up. Not that I would like to bring it up on purpose but can you pleae advice me on what to say as to ensure I have chance of getting a job?
Many thanks.
Hi Justwondering!
I know only too well what you are going through, having worked in IT for many years doing technical and user documentation. I know it doesn’t help, but what you describe is not all that uncommon. Documentation/ technical writing especially is hard to get people to focus on when they have so much else to worry about. I’ve had to chase down many people and it can get frustrating. Unfortunately, this kind of work is often given low priority by everyone else, although it’s critical to getting a good audit, to the function of the department, and to risk management. But I do digress. 🙂
Sometimes there are things you can do to make things better for yourself and I’ve written about that a lot here, but I know you aren’t asking me that. What you want to know is how to explain a short time at a job when you’re interviewing for a new one. Good question.
Basically, you need to come up with a positive reason that makes you look good and doesn’t look like you’re bad-mouthing your last employer. One reason that’s always ok to give is more money. You can always frame it by saying you really like the people you’re working with but you would like a higher salary and that’s not possible there. The same works for good growth potential if it applies to the new position.
If you are applying for different type of work, then it’s easy; the type of work you want to do is a good excuse. But if it’s exactly the same, then, in addition to the first two reasons I mentioned, you need to look for a reason why this particular employer/ job/ conditions/ environment is a far better match for you. Again, say something nice about the former employer like you appreciate they gave you a chance to learn, but you are looking for more of a challenge than they can offer you there. I think you get the picture.
By the way…the more sincere you can be about your reasons, the more real and trustworthy you will come off to your interviewer. So try to be honest while framing it in a positive light for yourself.
I’ve had lots of short-term jobs and found my way into great positions anyway. It’s all in the way you write your resume & cover letter, and in how you present yourself. Even though many HR departments weed for “job hoppers”, you can still get to a job. you only need one “yes!”
The important thing is not to feel bad about it since you tried your best. Good technical writers are needed and there are a lot of people who move from job to job in the field.
All the employer wants is an answer that satisfies them and makes you look like someone who will stay with them and do a good job. So try to come up with an answer that feels real to you and shows you are making a move to advance your career. Remember to practice at home before your interview!
I wish you much luck in your search! Please let us know what you find.
Ronnie Ann
Dear Work Coach,
A year and a half ago, I took a job I thought would be exciting and help me gain experience in technical writing. However, after a year this opportunity has turned into a nightmare. Company wide communication is non-existent, employees only hear about important product developments through the grapevine, my boss is a wimp who won’t stand up for her people, co-workers frequently ignore important job requests, e-mails, and phone messages, claiming they are too busy, making projects a near impossibility to finish.
Since I’ve been at this company for a short time, what do I tell prospective employers when they ask me why I am deciding to leave my current job? I need an answer that won’t make me seem like a silly job hopper or give the impression that something is the matter with me.
Thank you!