Cracking Interview Questions #6: "Why Were You Fired from Your Previous Job?

One of the most challenging questions you might face in an interview is:

"Why were you fired from your previous job?"

"Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently." — Henry Ford

This question can feel daunting, but it’s important to approach it with honesty, professionalism, and a focus on growth. How you answer this question can significantly impact the interviewer’s perception of you, so it’s essential to be prepared.

Why Do Interviewers Ask This Question?

Interviewers ask this question to understand:

1. Your Honesty: They want to see if you’re truthful and transparent about your past.

2. Your Ability to Learn from Mistakes: They are interested in knowing how you handle setbacks and what you’ve learned from the experience.

3. Your Professionalism: They want to check how you speak about your previous employer and whether you handle difficult situations maturely.

How to Answer This Question

1. Be Honest and Direct

It’s crucial to be truthful when explaining why you were fired. Trying to hide or lie about the situation can backfire, especially if the interviewer follows up with reference checks. A direct and honest response shows integrity and maturity.

Example:

"Yes, I was let go from my previous position. It was a difficult experience, but I’ve taken it as a learning opportunity."

2. Take Responsibility

Avoid blaming others or making excuses. Taking responsibility for your part in the situation demonstrates self-awareness and accountability, qualities that employers highly value.

Example:

"I made some mistakes in my previous role that affected my performance. I realize now that I could have handled certain aspects of my job better, and I’ve worked hard to address those areas."

3. Focus on What You’ve Learned

Shift the conversation from why you were fired to what you’ve learned from the experience. Emphasize how you’ve grown and the steps you’ve taken to improve.

Example:

"The experience taught me the importance of [specific skill or behavior]. Since then, I’ve [taken a course, sought mentorship, or applied new strategies] to ensure I won’t repeat the same mistakes."

4. Highlight Your Positive Qualities and Achievements

After addressing the reason for your dismissal, steer the conversation toward your strengths and achievements. Remind the interviewer of your positive qualities and the value you bring to a new role.

Example:

"Despite that setback, I’ve consistently been recognized for [a specific strength or achievement], and I’m confident that my experience and skills make me a strong candidate for this role."

5. Keep It Brief and Professional

Avoid going into too much detail or speaking negatively about your previous employer. Keep your explanation brief and professional, and then move the conversation forward to more positive aspects.

Example:

"It was a challenging time, but I’ve learned a lot from the experience and am excited about the opportunity to bring my improved skills to a new role."

Answering the question "Why were you fired from your previous job?" effectively requires a balance of honesty, accountability, and a focus on personal growth. By being truthful about the situation, taking responsibility, and emphasizing what you’ve learned, you can turn a potentially negative question into an opportunity to demonstrate your maturity and readiness for new challenges. Remember, everyone makes mistakes—what matters most is how you learn from them and move forward.