Take Time to Reflect ♦ Recognize that there is life after a job loss. ♦ Think about what you learned from the experience. ♦ Consider what you could have done differently. ♦ How will you move forward?

When the subject comes up in an interview: DON’T LIE ♦ Be upfront and honest about your dismissal. ♦ Even if you do not mention it, your employer is likely to find out anyway when checking your references. ♦ Your perceived dishonesty could cost you the job.

BE PREPARED TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ♦ Plan in advance how you will answer questions about your dismissal if they come up. ♦ Be objective, looking at the experience from your employer’s point of view as well as your own. ♦ If you still harbor resentment about losing your job, your negative feelings will come through in the interview.

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE ♦ Explain the situation briefly, then focus on the positive. ♦ Point out what you learned from the experience and what you did proactively to improve yourself.

RIGHT JOB, WRONG BOSS ♦ Perhaps your dismissal resulted from a a change in management and you didn’t get along with the new boss. ♦ Acknowledge that you recognize that some people just don’t click. ♦ Share references of other supervisors you previously worked for.

CHANGE IN STRATEGY ♦ Briefly acknowledge that there was a change in company strategy that you did not agree with. ♦ Move on to discuss what you learned from the situation.

LACK OF SKILLS ♦ Maybe your job moved forward, but you lacked the necessary skills to succeed. ♦ Use your time off to enhance your technology skills by taking computer classes and learning common office software.

POOR REVIEWS ♦ If you were fired as a result of poor performance reviews, you need to understand why. ♦ Try calling your old boss and asking for advice. ♦ You may find the conversation easier than you think now that the employment ties have been broken.

MISDEEDS OR DISHONESTY ♦If the reason for your dismissal was something like misusing company funds, sexual harassment or substance use, you have to accept that some companies may be reluctant to hire you. ♦Always be honest, say only what you need to say, and share what you’ve learned and how you’ve changed.

STAY POSITIVE! ♦ No matter what the circumstances of your dismissal were, remain positive and professional during the interview. ♦ Never badmouth a former employer or company. ♦ Focus on your work and what you learned from the experience. ♦ This is not an opportunity to vent about your negative experiences!

HAVE SOLID AND LEGITITMATE REFERENCES ♦ Secure references from other supervisors and colleagues who will give you a positive review and vouch for your integrity and ability. ♦ Have 2-3 business references as well as a couple of personal references.