How do you explain getting fired to your next potential employer?

If you were not fired due to misconduct or other wrong-doing, the first thing to keep in mind is that many employers will not mention that you have been fired in your termination letter. The separation is viewed and projected as a ‘mutual agreement to part ways.’ Employers realise that they are putting you through tough times and don’t want to make it any harder than it is. They also want to protect their reputation in the market and do not want former employees spreading a bad word, if it can be avoided.

Do make sure you speak with your former employer, to ensure that everyone concerned is clear about what reason for separation will be on record. In such cases, you should not have a problem explaining why you left the company to potential employers – you just decided to part ways.

In the event that you cannot avoid your former employer mentioning that you were fired, here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

Ø Be honest

While you can easily avoid the drama and details, it is important to be honest about why you left your employer. A simple – “They were cutting costs and had to let go of employees” will do.

Ø Avoid mentioning that your were fired in your application

It is not important or relevant to mention it as this stage. Save it for the interviews.

Ø Obtain references from managers, co-workers and others you interacted/worked with

Even if you mention that you were fired due to cost cutting, the first thing that your potential employer will thing is – “Was he/she part of the retrenchment due to low performance?” To overcome this, it is useful to get recommendation letters from people you worked with at your former employer(s).

Source: Sandbox Advisors, WSJC