Career Advisor: Dealing with Job Interview after being Fired

One of the most frequent concerns upon termination is how to explain you are no longer working at your previous employer.  Many people believe a stigma is attached to being terminated.  In the “real world” there are hiring authorities that will discriminate against an individual who has been fired.  On the other hand, other hiring authorities are more than willing to hear your story and then make a determination whether or not the termination will ultimately effect their decision.  With the number of mergers and downsizing that have occurred, being terminated does not carry as much negative connotation as it once did.  It is extremely important how you handle your situation.  The way you explain what happened will make the difference.

You must develop a believable and true statement that can be said clearly without breaks.  It must be short, positive, not critical of the company and concise!  It must be practiced so it is said smoothly.

Answer the following questions as an exercise to assist you with your answers when you discuss your termination:

1. What did your company tell you when you were terminated?

2. What do you believe was the reason for your termination?

Write a 30 second statement about your termination based on the information above.  Try the statement out by reading it to yourself in front of a mirror or tape it and then listen to it.  Is it smooth?  Is it honest?  Does it have any negative or critical comments about your past company?  If so, revise it!  Next, read it to your spouse and professionals in your field and ask them for their honest opinion!

Once your statement has been completed, make sure you know it, feel comfortable with it and can state it smoothly.  Usually, once this is completed you will experience some relief and begin to be comfortable with moving on in your job search.  One of the most difficult tasks has now been accomplished!  Being terminated is not the end of your job search.  The approach you take will determine whether or not your termination will affect you or not!

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Duke Witte absolutely was amazing! 

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to Duke Witte for his assistance in finding me a new job in the hospitality industry. I was disgruntled with my previous job, and I was feeling very discouraged about my prospects. I had been working in the restaurant industry for many years, and I had a lot of experience and skills, but I was having a hard time finding a better opportunity.

I was contacted via LinkedIn by Duke, and thank goodness I was.  Mr. Witte was incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my skills and experience, and worked tirelessly to find me a job that was a good fit.

Duke was also very honest and upfront with me about the job market. He didn't sugarcoat things, but also didn't give up on me. He kept me motivated and encouraged, and never gave up on finding me a job that I would love.

I am so grateful to Duke Witte and his team for their help. I am now happily employed, and I am so happy that I was able to find a job that I love. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a job in the restaurant industry. He is a true professional, and is dedicated to helping his clients find the perfect job!

Thank you again for everything!

Nick Grubbs

Working with Chris Bovio made job searching so much easier! 

Not only was he available and involved in my search, but also knowledgeable regarding the position. Chris used his industry experience and recruiting network to find the best position for me and my skill set. My only regret is that my new job is so perfect for me that I won’t need to use Chris or Patrice & Associates later.

Thanks,

Nick Guarino

Michael Greig was absolutely fantastic in every way! 

He gave me options and suggestions & eventually found a great for me. Communication was easy and he went above & beyond. Also, he seems like an all around good dude. Thanks again Michael. Solid work out there. You’re hired :)

Nic Callahan

Bryan Curtis was fantastic to work with!

Bryan was very on top of things throughout my recruiting process to the engineering firm I accepted my position with.  I responded to his LinkedIn posting and heard back from him within 24 hours. He continually spoke with me throughout the process checking in regularly and answering all my questions. Bryan was instrumental in helping me find a great job.

Thanks!

Austin

Frank Rondeau was a really big help! 

When it came to helping me find my new job, he knocked it out of the park!  He was very honest and thorough throughout the entire process. We had multiple conversations along the way and he always checked in after interviews. Frank was amazing to work with, and I'm super excited to start my new journey thanks to him.       

Many Thanks,

Chyanne

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