Category — interview questions

If you left your last job under less-than-ideal circumstances, you probably dread the “Why did you leave?” question that almost always comes up at job interviews. Here’s how to handle it.

First and most important, never lie. If you were fired, don’t say you quit. It’s very easy for companies to do background checks that will reveal this lie; it will probably come back to haunt you. Besides, you don’t want to start off your relationship with your next employer with a lie, do you? Admitting to being fired is not such a big deal these days; see my article, ‘”You’re Fired” Isn’t the Finale,’ in last month’s issue (there’s a link to back issues at the end of this newsletter).

KISS. No, I’m not referring to the ancient rock band or kissing up to the interviewer. Keep It Short and Simple. Tell what happened–you were terminated, you quit, your job was eliminated–whatever. Do not go into detail unless asked. [Read more →]