Being asked why you were laid off from a job can release a wave of anxiety. How should you handle the question in a job interview? Best to approach the conversation with honesty by sharing the circumstances that led to the decision. The key is to use positive framing, emphasising how you will bring the skills and experience you have gained to the new position and, rather than dwelling on the past, focus on how you will add value moving forward.
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Be honest about the situation. Be upfront about being laid off in your interview so that hiring managers know it wasn’t a personal decision.
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Be positive and focus on your skills and achievements. Note all your achievements and the ways you were able to add value to your previous organisation.
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Highlight what you did during your employment gap. Be sure to fill in your employment gap with productive work; such as volunteering our consulting work.
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Don’t bash your previous employer. Always speak positively when discussing your previous employer. If not, your recruiter will think you will do the same to them.
- Maintain relationships with your former colleagues. Having positive recommendations from a previous employer always makes a good impression.
The above leadership tip...
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