5 Ways To Answer “Why Were You Fired?” In An Interview

Most people dread to talk about being fired. However, in most interviews this question will come up. It is important to prepare for this in order to give the appropriate answers.

It doesn’t matter if you were fired at your last job due to disciplinary issues or the company was downsizing. These things happen. The important thing is how to talk about it them an interview and come out looking clean.

Here are some ways to answer the question “why were you fired?”

1. Be Honest

First, if you were laid off because of disciplinary issues, it is important to be honest and use the opportunity to describe how that happening has changed you. For example, you could say you could have done things differently then, but it was a chance for you to learn and grow and you believe you are wiser now.

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2. You didn’t get along with the boss

If the problem was that you could not get along with your boss, You can say that even though you get along well with most people, it wasn’t the case with this one so it was decided that you leave.

3. The job wasn’t right for you

You may also tell the hiring Manager that you made a mistake and took the wrong job or the company wasn’t right because you were desperate and ended up not being very productive. Now you prefer an opportunity that you can excel at, which is why you are interviewing.

4. You were laid off

Mention that the company was going through tough times so they were downsizing and unfortunately you ended up being one of those laid off.

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5. You were not skilled at the time

If you were fired because you did not have a certain skill set, it is important to mention what you are doing to overcome the said limitation. This is especially important if you are looking for a job similar to the one you had. For example, if you worked as a sales person and you were fired because you could not meet the set targets. Indicate what steps you have taken to improve like attending seminars on the same.

Never talk ill of your former employer or blame yourself for the termination, as this makes you seem like you will not be a good employee. Instead, give a brief and positive answer. Ensure the focus is that the job was not a good fit.

It is important to remember to be honest and direct when answering this question. You do not want to dwell on the issue. Prepare well for such an interview and be confident in your skills and abilities which you want to offer this new Company. This way you will be able to handle this tricky question well.

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Michelle is a Communications Officer at Career Point Kenya. Got any Career related questions? Contact her via michelle@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke