Interview Chatter

103 opinions for So You’ve Been Fired!

• Lisa
  Aug 5, 2007 at 9:09 pm

  Yes, I was working at this job it was a time-share company and this manager did not like me for anything because she was afraid that I was getting a lot of attentions from the CEO directors and she felt that I was a threat to her and she went ahead and fired me without her telling me but she let the other administration office do her dirty work to terminate me because she couldnt face me.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Aug 5, 2007 at 11:42 pm

  Hi Lisa,

  Thanks for visting Interview Chatter. I am sorry to hear about your termination. Are you currently working? Were you able to get a job after leaving the organization?

• debra
  Sep 10, 2007 at 7:59 am

  How do you explain to an employer that you were unjustly terminated–meaning your termination involved retaliation, sex discrimination, race discrimination, etc.? On the one hand, it seems to raise a red flag to the employer. with the interviewer probably thinking, “Hmm…if I hire this person, is he/she going to sue me for the same thing?” But on the other hand, if your termination really did involve actionable discrimination, what are you supposed to say?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Sep 10, 2007 at 12:29 pm

  Hi Debra - Thanks for visiting Interview Chatter. You ask a very good question and rather than trying to answer it in a quick comment, I would like to take some time and put together an answer for you as a post. I am sorry that you went through the issue or experience. I do believe you can get another job and still be very honest about what happened in the previous situation.

  I should be able to have a good answer for you later tonight. I work during the day, but I want to take my time, because your question is very real. I can feel your concern in your question. Check back later tonight or early tomorrow. I will also send it to you in an email. Please let me know what you think once you get my response.

• How to Explain Unjust Termination Part 2
  Sep 10, 2007 at 8:05 pm

  […] When they ask, “Have you ever been terminated from a job?” If the answer is “YES&#… […]

• Darlene McDaniel
  Sep 10, 2007 at 8:08 pm

  Hi Debra - Here is my response to your comment earlier today. Please feel free to ask any additional questions you may have about this topic or any other.

  http://www.interviewchatter.com/how-to-explain-an-unjust-termination/

  http://www.interviewchatter.com/how-to-explain-unjust-termination-part-2/

• Drew Williams
  Nov 30, 2007 at 8:53 am

  The problem I’m having is that question is asked on the application, usually an online one, and you are screened out automatically. Do I answer “no” so I can get an interview and then explain everything then? I will have already been dishonest but I have to answer question or I won’t be able to finish application?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Nov 30, 2007 at 10:18 am

  Hi Drew, First, thanks for visiting Interview Chatter. I look to hearing from you as often as you would like to comment.

  You ask a great question. My first response and recommendation is “no”, you never want to lie on the application. It is a legal document and they can and will use it against you if they find out you have been dishonest in any way. That being said, how do you get past the obstacle of answering yes to the question of “have you been fired?” I want to send you a note off line. I will attempt to send one to the email address you included. Let me ask you a few questions. And then if you are open to it, I would like to formulate a post around the question you ask. I know you are not the only person experiencing this “speed bump”. Thanks for asking a great question!

• Kathleen Riley
  Jan 10, 2008 at 11:16 pm

  I have the same question as Drew. I would never lie on an application, but I was also fired unjustly, and it’s hard to know how to put this on an application without sounding defensive or sounding like a “cry-baby”. The fear here is that the prospective employer will look at the reason for leaving - “termination” - and toss the application in the waste basket. How can a person - who did nothing wrong - write “let go” on an app and still project the image that she will be a good employee?

• Melissa Kufner
  Jan 11, 2008 at 1:13 pm

  I have the same concern as Kathleen. I let go from my job for “not the right fit” recently. I am very concerned on how this will look on the job application. As a person in management, I normally reveiwed resumes, not a formal job application, but now so many postions require an on-line submission that I’m not sure how to handle it. I do not feel comfortable including this information in a coversheet or in the body of an attached resume. Would it be better to contact the employer directly and e-mail or fax just the resume directly to the HR department?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jan 11, 2008 at 3:19 pm

  Hi Kathleen and Melissa, as a result of your questions, I will be posting about this topic over the weekend. A short answer in the mean time - One of the things I have learned recently, is that you do not need to say you were fired on an application. Typically, the applications could be screened out, something Drew was experiencing.

  When the application asks, “Why did you leave this job?” You can say, “It was time for a change. I am looking for new opportunities.” Neither of those responses is incorrect, or lying. Both are true. I will send another note to each of you after I write a post. There is a lot more to say on this topic.

  Melissa and Kathleen, Thank you both for stopping by Interview Chatter and leaving your question. It is a tough situation. I am working with a client right now on this issue. Trying to help her get a job. More to come! :)

• Debra
  Jan 11, 2008 at 7:32 pm

  I think this question is more difficult than initially meets the eye. If an application asks, “Why did you leave this job?,” it seems legitimate to have a response such as “It was time for a change,” etc. But when an application asks point blank–”Have you ever been terminated from a job?”–I don’t see how you can legitimately give a more generic answer. The fact of the matter is that you were fired. That’s true even if the firing was unfair, discriminatory, or was eventually resolved or adjudicated in your favor.

  I’ve actually stopped myself from filling out a job application when I was asked this question. I knew I’d have to answer “yes,” and then it seemed to me that I’d likely be screened out of the applicant pool, so why bother?

  Just seems to me there are no easy answers when bad stuff happens. Or perhaps I’m overstating the problem. But I don’t think so…. :)

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jan 11, 2008 at 8:01 pm

  Hey Debra, you make a great point. When there is a specific question about termination, you do want to answer that question truthfully. Typically, when you fill out an application online, many of them don’t ask the question. They generally ask, why did you leave your last employer?

  As I mentioned earlier, I am going to write another post about this topic. There are many people who have sent emails, I am working with some clients on this issue and the conversation here in the last couple of days has me thinking.

  Anyone else have any thoughts on this topic? Please feel free to share with the rest of us.

• Carroll
  Jan 16, 2008 at 9:30 pm

  well my question is about modified duties at work. I have been on modifed duties(not hours) for the last 7 years with the same company, I find out now that they want me to change my job??? I have been with this company for 22years and have never used my workplace injury as an excuse to call in to work. Compesation compensates the company for the modified hours. can they do that? they are saying “because of your modified duties you are not bringing the store up in sales” any help will help

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jan 16, 2008 at 10:43 pm

  Hi Carroll, Thank you for stopping by Interview Chatter today. I do have some questions for you and I will give you my initial thoughts, based on the information you have provided.

  My first question, has your boss or manager changed recently? Have there been changes in the chain-of-command in the organization?

  Is there documentation to support the modified duties? Was there ever any timeframe given concerning these duties?

  My initial take on your comment/question, is that before you do anything, grab documentation that you have in your records. You may need something to help support the modified duties. Can you do more? Do you want to do more?

  Depending on the state you work in, if it is one a right to work state, you may be discharged without cause. So if you want the job and you can do the job, go for it. Lastly, check with the organization who provides compensation for the modification. They should be able to tell you why the change and whether there is a way to protect you in the job.

  Please stop by again and leave your answers to my questions. I would also be very interested in the outcome to your situation.

• Lenora
  Jan 24, 2008 at 2:01 pm

  Thank you for this information. I was just terminated, four years away from retirement. At 61 yrs of age, I am a little worried about getting another job. I like your suggestion and plan to use it on my interview next week.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jan 24, 2008 at 10:22 pm

  Hi Lenora,

  Thank you for stopping by Interview Chatter today. I am so sorry to hear about your termination. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. PREPARATION is your best weapon going into your interview next week. If can suggest a book, 101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions by Ron Fry is the best book on the market in my opinion.

  Good Luck to you! Feel free to come back and share the results of your interview.

• Debra
  Jan 27, 2008 at 2:21 am

  One thing to add: Someone who was fired four years before she was eligible for retirement should contact an attorney. It’s possible there may be a claim for age discrimination–and if the you’re successful, that could mean the employer has to rehire you with back pay or pay some kind of compensation for unjustly terminating you. It all just depends on the circumstances of the firing. But doing this is something to consider.

• Sue
  Feb 7, 2008 at 9:51 pm

  Darlene, is it considered being fired when you negotiate a severance package and agree neither you nor the company will ever talk about the reason for you leaving (although they wanted you to)

• Darlene McDaniel
  Feb 7, 2008 at 11:05 pm

  Hi Sue! Thanks for visiting Interview Chatter! I love your question and I am going to give you a short answer here and then write a post based on my experience and research.

  First, depending on the wording of the Severance Agreement. If there is nothing in the documents that indicates you have been fired, then you don’t need to say you have been fired.

  People and organizations make agreements daily about severing their working relationship. If there is an agreement to sever the relationship, make sure you are crystal clear about why and how the agreement came to be. Confirm what they will say to anyone calling to verify employment. Make sure you are comfortable with what they will say.

  Why does the organization want you to talk about the reason for leaving? I would love more details about that portion of your question!

  I am going to answer your question more specifically in a post. Please confirm you received this note. I will also send an email. Good Luck to you!!

• Cheri
  Feb 12, 2008 at 10:34 am

  Hello,

  I was terminated from a position but my organization said they will not state why I left, that they will only give the dates I worked there.

  Do i have to say i was terminated on my next job application if they will be unable to find out via my past employer.

  Thank you,
  Cheri

• Darlene McDaniel
  Feb 12, 2008 at 12:48 pm

  Hi Cheri, my recommendation is to never lie. I will always coach people to be honest. That being said, you have to determine how you want to communicate to a future employer your reason for no longer being employed with “X” company.

  If you lie on the application about why you left, than that is a problem. Rather than answering your question directly, I would love it if you would tell me what you prefer to say on the application concerning this employer.

  I will wait to see your response to my question… Any one else have some thoughts on Cherie’s question?

• Cheri
  Feb 12, 2008 at 4:46 pm

  thank you for your response. I guess my feeling about the situation is…if they can’t find out…why would I need to tell. I am completely aware that honesty is always the best policy, that is actually my struggle here, but in a case like this where it can do more harm than benefit why would it be a “problem” as you stated.

  It was a very personal reason why i was let go…something that had nothing to do with my work permormance. I guess I also feel that it could be like anonymity in a 12 step program…some things should remain of your own personal knowledge, right to privacy. I became immediately employed after being let go so I guess in response to “what i would say on the application” is that I started a new job.

  California law says a past employer cannot state why someone left…that they can only state the dates that they were employed. My feeling is that they may do that for this exact reason….to protect peoples personal right to privacy.

• Darlene
  Feb 12, 2008 at 9:20 pm

  Hi Cherie! Thank you for your candor! You actually answered your question just by me pushing back a little. As a coach, I truly work hard not to “tell” people what to do, but to help them arrive at a solution that will work for them.

  You have done that. I know California’s employment laws from experience. I lived there years ago and you are correct in what you are saying. Employers can only verify dates and salary.

  So, two things, first, you are already employed. That is AWESOME! So you don’t have to worry about how to answer the question of why you left the previous employer. By the time that question comes up in your future, employers will be more focused on your most recent employer. That is a good thing.

  Second, if and when you have the opportunity to discuss the job, the organization where you were let go, you can say very easily say, “it was time for me to make a change.” And then segue into the new position that you have already begun.

  Focus on the new position. You definitely want to take the good from the previous position. Be able to speak to those things and the lessons, the skills and abilities you learned from the job. Stay away from any issues that may touch on the issues you don’t want to discuss.

  I hope this helps!!

• Cheri
  Feb 13, 2008 at 12:01 am

  Helps a great deal. Thank you so much.

• Cheri
  Feb 13, 2008 at 12:09 am

  One more quick question….a friend pointed this out to me earlier…if a law prevents an employer from discussing whether or not you were fired…why is another able to ask if you ever were? She compared it to them asking if you are pregnant, how old you are or what your religious affiliation is…so it seems odd that they can ask if you were ever fired. Made me wonder.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Feb 13, 2008 at 8:35 am

  Asking the question, have you ever been fired is not an illegal question. The legality in this issue begins and ends with the organization you previously worked. What do they say about you? If they say more or verify more than salary and dates of employment and it hinders you from getting the job, AND you can prove it, than you may have legal action. But there is nothing illegal about them asking you the question. You would be the one giving them information about you.

  In states like California, employment law dictates what organizations will do. Some organizations are located in more than one state. Typically the corporate headquarters may be located in another state. Organizations adjust depending on what the law of the land is in the states they are located.

  As far as “rules of engagement” - some companies do what they want to do as long as they don’t get caught.

  Questions asked about religious affiliation and pregnancy are illegal no matter what state you reside. They are non-negotiable. It doesn’t stop some hiring managers from asking the questions.

• Michelle
  Feb 14, 2008 at 11:57 am

  I had a choice, I could either resign or I would be terminated. I chose resignation. However, a month and a half down the road, I’m still looking for employment. I had a really good interview and thought I had the job, of course, it didn’t pan out. Now I’m sitting here without a job and wondering what I tell people. My approach has been “corp re-org.” I am obtaining letters of recommendation from a fellow co-worker, past customers and other business associates. I’m open to any suggestions you may have. Thanks.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Feb 14, 2008 at 1:04 pm

  Hi Michelle! Thanks for Visiting Interview Chatter today. I am sorry to hear about your job situation. I can feel your frustration with the job search through your email.

  Let me recommend a few things that may help you move forward into a more positive place.

  1. I recommend that you forgive yourself and release the situation that happened in your last place of employment. If you don’t it will continue to get in your way in the interview. Even if you don’t see it, you are probably carrying some baggage and the interviewers can see it or sense it. Either way it is not helping you. You have to make a shift and take on this job search. It is your full time job until you get a job.

  2. Networking is a good way to get your feet in the door. Who do you know, that knows someone that knows someone who needs a good employee? Start putting some feelers out there and get out there and start meeting people.

  3. Homework assignment: 101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions by Ron Fry. Get the book, read the book and do the book. There are some things you can be doing to help you evaluate your skills and abilities. Write them down and begin to develop an offensive strategy for your interviews. One of the items you should have on this paper is what you will say about the previous place. Why did you leave? What lessons, skills, strengths did you gain from that place and how will it help you in the next organization?

  Let me know if you need any more encouragement. I do that well. You WILL find a job. Lastly, read this post I wrote not too long ago when I was in transition and looking to make a move. It might help you along in your journey!

  http://www.interviewchatter.com/its-about-the-journey-not-the-job/

  Good Luck!

• Sue
  Feb 14, 2008 at 8:59 pm

  Darlene, I didn’t mean they wanted me to talk about why… I meant “the CEO asked me to resign or be terminated”.’ iF I CHOSE TO RESIGN, they would give me a severance package in exchange for me not essentially suing them!! I don’t think they had any reason to terminate me but i wasn’t going to stay where i wasn’t wanted so i negotiated more severance and left. The agreement says they won’t say anything bad about me and vice versa. plus i get a good reference and already have that in writing. It also says our agreement is completely confidential. Only lawyer, spouse, etc. can know therefore, the first interview i had..HR says in a group interview : have you ever resigned in lieu of being terminated??? I about died. I said no but left because i knew i wasn’t going to get along well with a new member of a the team.. which is definitely true!! I also said i had accomplished my goals, etc..

• Jean
  Mar 5, 2008 at 1:30 pm

  Darlene,
  I found you doing a search and there was the question from Cynthina that asked:”I was fired from a job a couple years ago and I wanted to know if I should or could use this job in my resume and employment history? It’s my longest employment history so I gained a lot of my experience from this job but I was fired for petty theft. If a prospective employer were to contact this employer, can the employer disclose to them why I left the job?? Or do I have rights to not have that info.disclosed? I need advice. Please help! Should I or shouldn’t I include this job in my resume?”

  You told her she should include it in the resume, but I did not see an answer to the question about what the employer can disclose? I am in the same situation and in dire need of help. I feel like no one will hire me after this mistake. I have learned a great deal about myself after this incident. What can the old employer say? HELP!

• Darlene McDaniel
  Mar 5, 2008 at 9:37 pm

  Hi Jean! Thank you for visiting Interview Chatter today. I apologize for not responding sooner. In any case to answer your question:

  An employer, most employers are very careful about what they say when giving a reference regarding an employee especially one that has been terminated. My recommendation to my clients is to confirm with the employer what their policy is on employee references. They have one - you need to know what it is.

  Some employers only share salary, dates of employment and whether you are rehirable. Others will share everything and anything they are asked. Go back to the employer and ask them what they do. Most employers will tell you and they will tell you the truth. Whatever you do, don’t omit them from your applications or resume. Once you know what they will do, please touch base with me again so that I can help you with their response.

• shelly
  Mar 12, 2008 at 6:31 am

  I was unjustly fired from a job for misconduct. I’ve worked at my job for over a year, trained 4 temps in my position and never once received one bad comment about my performance. In fact, I received nothing but praise, given a good review and raise and was trained in other departments within the company. Unfortuantely, UI sided with my previous employer. How do I explain to a future employer that I was competent in my position and that my firing was unjustified?

• Jane
  Mar 31, 2008 at 9:53 am

  I was recently (2 weeks ago) fired from my position as National Sales Manager for no tangible cause. My employer said that I simply had a different “style” than him, that there was nothing wrong with me, and that “the company wasn’t ready for me”. He refused to expound on these answers any further. I only worked for the company for 2 months but during that time I had a significant impact on sales growth. This impact was well received by my employers and was recognized by some pats on the back. When I was fired, the day after a 5 day (including weekend) tradeshow that I worked for them, I was shocked.

  Since then I’ve licked my wounds and started planning for the next step; however, now my employer is asking me for the contact information of one of my personal business contacts, worth $100K in new business revenues. They had never before known anyone at this company and I had been working on them for the entire 2 months I was working at the company. My employers hardly paid attention…until now. Now they’re asking me for the contact information.

  This doesn’t make any sense to me. How do you fire someone that brings so much immediate value to the table? My thought was that they might be in financial trouble. But to take on this new account they’re going to be spending a lot more money. AND, they’re still trying to squeeze out of me any last ounce of value by taking my hard-earned relationships.

  What do I do?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Mar 31, 2008 at 10:04 am

  Jane, you ask a very good question. Let me think on this some. I will post a response here later today or tonight. I want to give you good counsel. Hang in there!

  Darlene

• Darlene McDaniel
  Apr 1, 2008 at 8:12 am

  Good Morning Jane, I trust that you will see this note. After pondering your question all night, here is what I recommend:

  First, you have to determine whether you are willing to allow this company to continue to do business with this customer that you brought to the table. Is the product/service you were attempting to sell really of value for them. They are the customer. Rather than looking at this from the perspective of the organization and what they get from the transaction, look at it from the perspective of the customer. In the end, if the product was valuable to them with you at the helm or without you at the helm, it will go a long way for you to release the information to the company and hope for a better experience for the customer than what you experienced as an employee.

  Second recommendation, if you are unclear about why you were terminated, I always recommend to my clients to go back and ask for feedback. It cannot be about defending your position or perception. It has to be about you being open to what they have to say to you. If you can do that, you will learn something. Use it to help you in the next position you find yourself.

  Please confirm that you read this note and please ask additional questions if you have them. Let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.

• Jane
  Apr 1, 2008 at 10:46 am

  Thanks for your perspective, Darlene. I understand that these lessons are valuable for all future experiences, but I can’t help but feel bitter about it all. I have a bubbling feeling that part of my termination was because of my youth. A few weeks back I was giving some feedback to my boss about a rep group I thought needed to be replaced due to lack of production. It had literally been a year since they’d sold anything new and as the new NSM it was my responsibility to make sure the company had competent and able representation in the field. When I gave my suggestion starting with “in my experience…” my boss scoffed with “your experience? what are you, 25??” That wasn’t the first time he’d made reference to my age– he also had asked my references if my age would be a challenge to reps, colleagues, and customers. The answer was no, of course, and he hired me, so I thought that was behind us. Or so I thought. I hate to say it, but I feel like I was discriminated against–and like all discrimination, it’s so hard to prove. And perhaps there were other reasons for my termination– I did ask. I pressed to see what I may have done wrong or inappropriately- the answer was the same: it’s not you. we just have different styles. But I did exactly what I was asked– in fact, I kicked ass and took some names!

  I shook his hand on the way out the door, told him no hard feelings, and went on my separate way. But, then I realize that my commissions don’t add up- so I have to “fight” him on that. Why does business have to be so shady? I’m hurt because I thought these owners were good, honest people. Turns out they’re not the kind of people I want to do business with anyway. I realize this as positive. But why am I so bitter? I can give up my contact, but I can’t help but feel used…after ALL that.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Apr 1, 2008 at 9:17 pm

  Hey Jane! You pose an interesting question about businesses - “Why do they have to be so shady?” That is a great question. One I may write about in the near future.

  I also am intrigued about the age discrimination issue you felt within this organization. My last recommendation to you, is to share your concerns with someone you trust, that has some business savvy. Get their take on the situation. You may have more information than you think concerning this organization. I am not saying fight for the job, but if there was discrimination in this case, you may have a case. Get some more perspective. Speak to people who you trust, who will give you an objective opinion about the situation.

  Last thing I want to say, is concerning the bitterness you may be feeling. Bitterness is mature anger, unresolved. That can be difficult to overcome. You are probably like most people in that you need a job like everyone else. You don’t want to take those feelings into a new opportunity. Resolve the feelings with this job loss and move forward. It may take you longer than a moment to resolve it, but you need to get rid of the bitterness so that you can take all of your strengths, your skills and abilities to the next job opportunity and make a tremendous difference. I wish you much success in your job search!

• Latisha
  Apr 14, 2008 at 5:43 pm

  Hello,

  I had a great job with an easy going male boss, he was ok with you and how you did you job just as long as you got the job done. I learn my new job well, but some people in the department were intimidated by how fast a learner I was and if they were going to loose their jobs, because they were complaining about more pay. I believe they thought I was hired to be a replacement for complainers. Well, my male boss was replaced by a female who was a former pay complainer. She got promoted to supervisor so they could pay her more money. This woman was intimidated by me when we were on the same job level, so when she became boss, she would give bad evaluations possibly to get me to resign on behest of her superiors. I complained to HR management, but he made it seem like I was the problem. So, I resigned. I moved out of state got a job which required a background check. This out of state job seem to only do background checks to find a negative, so they wouldn’t hire a person. When they couldn’t find a negative except that I used that former female supervisor as a reference with the male supervisor the current job used her reference against me to builded their reason to terminate me. Which the current job had made up lies to terminate me. They knew this and the HR manager at that job had me sign a form to get paid one month of pay or I could talk to a lawyer if I wanted to sue. I took the payoff since I don’t have money for any fancy lawyers. That HR manager of course knew this, so I was wrongfully terminated, but I can’t prove it, because I was terminated during my probation stage. I believe some of the staff was intimidated by my previous skills and a possiblity that I would find a better job in a great organization and that was there way to prevent me from getting that better job. They wanted me to have two negatives in place of the two positives they got from doing a background check. It should be illegal to do background checks to find negatives so they can hire you then fire you. I thought the whole purpose of doing a background check is to decide if they want to hire a person. Not to hire a person for their skills to help them with a temporary project then make up a reason to fire a person just, because that organization no longer need a person’s services. That is just wrong and an illegal termination.

• Melissa
  Apr 14, 2008 at 10:53 pm

  Latisha,

  I totally agree. I too was terminated for no reason. When I asked the manager, she said,” it’s just not working out”. If you ask me the real reason is because I did not belong to her click (the 2hr lunch work-out grp and ethnicity)(it was a small accounting office) and I knew my job well, of which she was responsible and did not want to know anything about it. So when her boss asked for an update she had no answer and blamed me. I insisted on meeting with her boss the day I left and explained to him what was going on and the HR rep. said to her boss, “No wonder she (meaning my boss) hired a another person.” This other person was hired shortly before I left and I have no doubt she is doing my job now. Now that I had already set up the procedures and told them what was needed. You think if you work hard and do a good job you will be rewarded, but just the opposite is true. It seems apparent that supervisors really want clock watchers and people who do so-so work just so the boss can look better. Amazing. Your right, it is criminal and companies should not allow it. A friend once said he had no plans on moving up just wanted to sit in his cube doing a so-so job and getting paid for it that was all a company deserved. At the time I thought that was the crime, but now I’m not so sure, maybe he had a point of not giving too much only to see no reward.

• xavier
  Apr 25, 2008 at 1:06 am

  so i go into interviews and they ask why i left my last job. I always say because i moved to new york from miami. Wich IS true, seeing as how i got fired on my last day.

  Will my past employer notify the interviewees that i was terminated?

• Lisa
  Apr 25, 2008 at 6:18 am

  I hope you can help because I am really stumped about what to do-
  I was fired after my company enacted a new attendance policy that stated you could have only 7 “legal” abscences during a six month rolling period. “Legal” abscences did NOT includes illnesses. So if your young child was sick and you had to stay home they held it against you, if you were sick and could not work unless you had a note from a doctor and you took a “leave of abscence” it was held against you.
  I worked for a retail company for 5 1/2 years and made my way up to a customer service manager and was well liked and good at my job. A new support manager was hired, which was one step above me and for some reason she took an instant dislike to me. This woman went out of her way to discredit me to all the managers above me and began to make my job a living hell. I didn’t want to leave my employer because i liked my job and at least wanted to wait until I had another one lined up. Well one day I was VERY ill and could not make it in, I had not hit my seventh time out so I thought I was fine. Well 4 days later when my shift was 3/4 done I was called into the managers office and fired. I was very adult and dignified about it, said goodbye gathered my things and left.
  I have been trying to find a new job for almost 8 months and can’t get anything. I have filled out 20-25 applications and NOTHING. I am convinced that this woman is bad mouthing me to prospective companies and I can’t stop it. The last few applications I have filled out I have actually left off this employer hoping that would help. I am worried about what to do. Can they find out about my last job even though I left it off? Should I just be honest about why I was let go? It’s not like I called out of work to spend the day at the beach. Help-

• Darlene McDaniel
  Apr 25, 2008 at 11:01 pm

  Hi Lisa, I sent you an email this morning. Did you get it? To answer the questions you asked - YES a new employer can find out about the other employer. It is important that you are honest when applying for jobs. Don’t put yourself in a position to lose a job because you weren’t up front about your previous employer. If you really would like assistance, please send me an email with a good telephone number and I will call. I am also available through Yahoo IM. I will wait for your to contact me.

• Lisa
  Apr 27, 2008 at 10:46 am

  So thanks for answering me back. I have also posted on other message boards and they all say the same thing: yes include my last empolyer even though I was fired, but don’t say why. They all suggested I put down for the reason “new management, not right fit”. So I have started using that. My worry is that if contacted my previous employer will state that it was due to an absence problem and say I was a horrible employee(even though I was not).

• Debra
  Apr 27, 2008 at 9:22 pm

  Lisa,

  Here’s my two cents’ worth. :)

  Most employers–at least the smarter ones–won’t say you were fired or even go into detail about absenteeism, etc. The reason: Employers in a number of states can be sued for what’s called tortious interference with the ability to contract. What that means is that, depending on the state, an employer could be sued for providing negative information about a former employee that prevents the person from being hired at another job. So smarter employers typically give out information about the dates the employee worked for the company, and that’s about it.

  Good luck!

• Video Instruction: Where are Ethics in the Workplace?
  Apr 28, 2008 at 11:05 pm

  […] have a post So You’ve Been Fired! This post has drawn a lot of comments from people who have been fired from their jobs. The struggle […]

• Brijet
  Apr 30, 2008 at 2:27 am

  I was hired at a company, started training which would last for two weeks. Half way through my fifth day of training, I was called to the human resources department and I was told my employment can not continue because of something in my background. I thought companies do not hire anyone until the background checks came back not before the background checks come back. What is the law?, was I violated?.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Apr 30, 2008 at 6:08 am

  Brijet, Thank you for stopping by Interview Chatter and leaving a comment. Your question is a good one. Here are two things you need to consider

  1. Many time companies hire people contingent upon all references and background checks are complete. Sounds like a call center. Is that the type of job? If so, they are usually hiring to fill a training class. So all HR paperwork may not be complete. While you are in training and even sometimes when you complete training, people are terminated. Airline industry does this as well.

  The second, is the company in an at will employment state? If so, you can be asked to leave at any time with no explanation. Check the offer letter you received. Go back to the orientation you went through. Did they give you any indication that they were still completing paperwork? If so, there is your answer. I look forward to hearing from you.

• Nicole
  May 19, 2008 at 11:16 pm

  Hello, Darlene
  My former company is in bad shape right now. My boss thought he should hire some one who is more experienced to manage bad cash flow and good at collecting money when company is in financial troubles, so I was let go while he told me that it has nothing to do with termination and fire, it just becomes I am too young and need gain more experience in new opportunities. I did not do anything wrong actually. I got several job interviews next week. For sure, they will ask the reason that I left. I hope I can get some suggestions from you as soon as possible.

• Darlene McDaniel
  May 20, 2008 at 7:17 am

  Hi Nicole,

  I may need a little more information to speak to your specific situation, but let me start by saying this..

  If the organization is doing poorly, that is something you want to share in an interview. Leverage that information and make about them. How frame it in the dialog is very important. But it is ok to say “I was let go, because the organization is struggling financially.” If you didn’t do anything according to your previous employer, than they should be willing to give you an excellent reference for your next job opportunity. Here is what I share with people I coach, and I know I have shared it here at Interview Chatter - Ask the previous employer what they will say when called to verify your employment. It is VERY important that you know what they will say prior to the interviews you have scheduled. Why? Because you want to make sure that you give a consistent message. If you know they will give you an excellent reference and performance was not an issue, just let them know “the organization was struggling and they let me go, however they are willing to give me an excellent reference.” And move the discussion back to your skills and abilities and what you will bring their organization. Don’t say anything about being too young and them hiring someone else. That is TOO much information. Not relevant to YOUR job search. Please let me know your thoughts.

• Lisa
  May 21, 2008 at 2:31 pm

  Darlene-
  Great News!!! I got a job today… I saw a hotel with a “Now Hiring” sign so I just walked in and got hired after 10 minutes! I start tomorrow. I will be working the front desk and it is so close to home I can save gas by walking. I feel so great! I am so excited. I will come back and let you know how it is going.
  -Lisa

• Darlene McDaniel
  May 21, 2008 at 5:44 pm

  Hey Lisa - CONGRATULATIONS!!! Yippee!! Thank you for coming back and sharing your success!! I want to hear more details about the interview. Also, please come back and tell us how things are going. Good Luck and have fun!!

• denise
  May 26, 2008 at 5:12 pm

  i WAS FIRED AS PERMANENT SUB BECAUSE i DID NOT PASS PROBRATION. i AM A CERTIFIED TEACHER AND THE PRINCIPLE KNEW i WAS TRYING TO GET BACK IN THE CLASSROOM. hE FIRED ME OVER HERSAY ANY i WANT MY JOB BACK. i HAVE TO USE HIM FOR REFENCES AND i DO NOT THINK HE WILL GIVE A GOOD ONE BECAUSE HIS WIFE IS OVER PERSONNEL. i AM VERY DEPRESSED.

• denise
  May 26, 2008 at 5:13 pm

  i WAS NOT IN THE UNION BUT i WON MY UNEMPLOYMENT.

• Darlene McDaniel
  May 26, 2008 at 11:02 pm

  Hi Denise, I am sorry to hear about your job situation. I am not sure what it will take to get your job back, but I can tell you this, there are lots of teaching opportunities out there. Don’t allow yourself to get stuck in this opportunity. For every door that closes, another will surely open. Get out there and see what you can find. You will find another. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you in your job search.

• Aaron
  May 28, 2008 at 4:27 am

  You guys are a bunch of pu$$ies…why are you gonna be honest on an application when these corporations lie about everything under sun. Enron anyone?

• Renee
  May 28, 2008 at 7:41 pm

  Hi Darlene,

  I too was recently terminated after several years in the position and have now found myself looking for a new job. I have received a couple of interviews with different companies and both companies are calling me back for a second interview this week and next. The company that I meet with again this week are aware of my termination and the unjust cause discharge (not discrimination but failed to have a paper signed by management) but I would like to be better prepared for both second interviews to answer them in a professional manner and not to stumble all over my words.

  I plan on going to the library to pick up Ron Fry’s book that you mentioned in your blog to help as well, but I would really like to hear what you suggest.

  FYI, I allowed them to discharge me instead of saying I quit because then I would have forfeited my severance pay and not been eligible for unemployment. The unemployment office did find that the cause was unjust and sided with me-thank goodness, but it only proves to me that if I did something so wrong why are they allowing unemployment to occur.

  Thank you for listening.

• Darlene McDaniel
  May 28, 2008 at 9:28 pm

  Hi Renee, Thank you for visiting Interview Chatter. Before I respond to your question, please clarify that the reason for termination was your “failure to get a document signed by management.”? Is that correct?

  Also, the organizations that you have scheduled 2nd interviews, did they ask you about the terminations during the first interview?

• Renee
  May 29, 2008 at 7:49 am

  That is correct, I failed to have a document signed and in addition, I approved 2 clients (one whom had processed with us before and another one who shared a business with a partner-the partner had so so credit but the other one had excellent credit so I was able to approve the application based on the one with excellent-I was told 4 years ago that I only needed one signature not both-so of course I will use the one with the excellent status. I was informed that I did not hold up to policy.

  I did share with one organization about the termination but the second one they never asked if I was terminated-they simply stated “I see that you are no longer with XXX and I said that that is correct, I left on…and looking for a new challenge.” I never lied to them but I feel quilty for not coming out and telling them that I was terminated.

  I am on my way to get Ron’s book this morning but really appreciate your input.

  Thanks!

• Darlene McDaniel
  May 29, 2008 at 11:14 pm

  Hi Renee! Thanks for the confirmation! My first comment is that you don’t have any reason to feel guilty about not telling them you were terminated. I am all for being honest and upfront about who you are and what you bring. But if they don’t ask you about being terminated, your answer was phenomenal. I actually may write a post about it. That’s how good it is.

  As far as how you share what happened of if asked, first thing, take responsibility for not having the document signed. Then, share, “based on how I was trained, I thought I could … (fill in the blank) - Also share what you have been doing in similar situations. As a result I was terminated.” Then “What I learned from this experience is…. (fill in the blank). What I will do in the future is…(fill in the blank), to ensure that I am clear about how to process my work.”

  Those are my thoughts! Let me know how it goes!

• Cecelia
  Jun 15, 2008 at 3:08 pm

  I was fired for violation of the company’s Code of Conduct - one which I clearly signed but did not quite understand. When the question “Were you fired for violation of Code of Conduct?” is asked and I answer YES, this looks bad unless I’m able to explain. Any suggestions?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jun 15, 2008 at 6:57 pm

  Hi Cecelia, You ask a great question. Here are my initial thoughts, but I need more information from you to give you specific help.

  Most hiring managers will not ask the question you pose, “Were you fired for violation of Code of Conduct?”. What they will ask is “have you been fired?” or “Why were you fired?”

  As far as how to explain that you have been fired for a Code of Conduct violation. So, if you are willing to risk, please tell me what the Code of Conduct violation is.

• Cecelia
  Jun 15, 2008 at 8:01 pm

  I worked for an Insurance CO. I accessed my file, which is in violation. I did not read any notes - just wanted to see if the file had been forwarded. I was in the file for less than 2 seconds and reported to my Lead worker of the access. Zero tolerance - I was let go. I’m in the process of filling out an app which poses the question.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jun 15, 2008 at 8:14 pm

  Cecelia,

  In this case, the best way to respond to this situation is to say exactly what you placed in this comment back to me. The only thing I would recommend that you omit the part about not reading the notes. It is irrelevant. You were terminated for accessing your file. Say that. Then say, you knew it was a violation (being accountable for your actions), then you need to say what you learned, and that you will not make the mistake again. All of that information must be included on the application. It is critical that you speak or write from a place of accountability. Don’t make excuses or attempt to justify your behavior.

  Let me know if this helps!

• Cherish
  Jun 29, 2008 at 5:17 pm

  I was terminated from a job in Oct 07′ I was there for 7 months.I felt like I was let go b/c the supervisor didn’t like me.She was friends with alot of the co-workers and was use to everyone brown-nosing her.There were a few people,myself included who didn’t play this game.The supervisor was young,a novice,and very unprofessional.I let the executive know that I was having problems with her( my former supervisor) and a few other people as well.This went on for about a month.Eventually I was called into the office one day and was told I was being let go.A friend of mine who still works for the company told me that she was let go some months later.

  I’ve been filling out applications and I know that if I put this place on my employment history it would increase my salary.However, I’m afraid that they wouldn’t even consider looking through my application b/c I was terminated.

• Cherish
  Jun 29, 2008 at 5:22 pm

  I wanted to clarify that my former supervisor was let go,not my friend.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jun 29, 2008 at 6:38 pm

  Hi Cherish,

  Thank you for stopping by Interview Chatter today. I am trying to find the question in your comment. Are you asking whether you should put this organization on your application? If so, the answer is YES! It is very important to include all employment history even if you were terminated. What you need to work on is how you will communicate what happened in the organization and why you were fired. I am happy to help you with that. Respond back to my comment and let me know if I at least answered your question. Then we can talk about how you position this organization in the discussion/ the interview.

• Cherish
  Jun 29, 2008 at 7:45 pm

  Hi Darlene,

  Thanks for getting back to me you pretty much answered my question.I’ve filled out a few applications,but never put this organization down on my application.I feel bad b/c I had a job interview recently it went great,but I always have my past job lingering in the back of my head. In the future I want to put this organization down on my resume’.But,how do you say I was there for 7 months and then I was terminated to future employers?And still having a chance of getting the job.

• Maria
  Jun 30, 2008 at 10:31 am

  Hi Darlene,
  I was terminated in June this year, I had only been there for 15 months. It was humiliating, and extremely embarassing as I was their top performing employee. They said I violated the code of ethics. I did not, but there is really nothing I can do about it. I will hold my head up high and look for another job. However,
  I have been to five interviews, and told the truth, and have been turned down by four, I am waiting for one more answer, and it has been 2 weeks, so I am guessing that, that is going to be a no too. I have called and the lady said she hadn’t made up her mind yet.
  What can I say when asked why I was terminated? The truth is not working. I am at home so I could start immediately. I am a honest, hardworking, and very professional.
  Your advice would be much appreciated.
  Thanks in advance.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jun 30, 2008 at 12:07 pm

  Cherish, The reason the other job is in your head has more to do with the fact that it is hidden. Our subconcious a way of keeping us “real” with ourselves. What I mean is that exposing it is better than hidding it. Learning how to leverage the termination in the job interview is the lesson to be learned.

  I am available by phone in the evenings. I am happy to speak to you and assist. I may put together a teleconference on this issue, because there are lots of people who are struggling with this as well. If you are interested in meeting with me by phone, please let me know. Watch for a post in the next few days about a teleconference call. I will post here as well. Stay tuned.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jun 30, 2008 at 12:11 pm

  Hi Maria! Thank you for visiting Interview Chatter. I am sorry that you are going through this very difficult process of interviewing and losing opportunities because of a termination. I know that you don’t want to share the termination with prospective employers, but honesty is better. What you do need is to fugure out how to leverage the termination in the interview. How to discuss it and still walk away from the interview with a fighting chance to get the job. As I mentioned to Cherish above, I am happy to help. Let me know if you are willilng to meet by phone. i look forward to hearing from you!

• maria
  Jun 30, 2008 at 12:20 pm

  Thankyou for answering. I do want to share this with employers, but I don’t want to lie. At this stage after four turndowns, I don’t know what to think anymore.
  What Number do I call to speak to you?
  Thanks for your help. I have printed and read all the entires.

• Cherish
  Jun 30, 2008 at 1:14 pm

  Darlene,

  It would be great if we could meet by phone, please let me know the time,date,and number.Thanks for your input.

• maria
  Jun 30, 2008 at 2:37 pm

  oh my!! I have just received my mail, and I know why I didn’t get the one job… My bancruptcy!!they didn’t ask and I just didn’t remember. Had they asked I would of told them the truth. In 2004 I had to file bancruptcy due to a divorce. My credit is good since the divorce and it has been 4 years. I went to experian.com and looked at my credit.

• TeleConference - So, You’ve Been Fired
  Jun 30, 2008 at 6:56 pm

  […] Teleconference here at Interview Chatter. The teleconference is limited to 10 people. The topic, So, You’ve Been Fired. Feel free to read the post So, You’ve Been Fired. It will help you […]

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jun 30, 2008 at 8:08 pm

  ************TELECONFERENCE**************
  WHEN: Tomorrow, July 1st
  TIME: 7:00 PM EST
  Please send and email to: darlingmcdaniel@gmail.com to sign-up.
  *****************************************
  I look forward to hearing from you!

• Cherish
  Jul 2, 2008 at 5:21 pm

  I had an interview today I’m not sure how it went.I was honest and told the interviewer about my termination from my last job.I wish I’d spoken more elougently about it,job hunting is so stressful.Ugh!I was online a few days ago about interviews and the writer says,”If the interview is 30 minutes or less then it’s not a good sign.”I honestly don’t know how long the interview was.She told me she would check my references and get back with me next week.I kindly ask for a date and she said, “I can’t promise you a date.” I’m trying so hard to think positive,but I don’t think i’ll be getting a call back.I was probably better off not putting my last job on my application.Why do interviewers even bother saying they’ll call you back?When they know for a fact you won’t hear from them again.I’d rather the interviewer tell me flat out,”I don’t think you’d be right for our company thanks for your time.”

• Cherish
  Jul 2, 2008 at 5:34 pm

  The interviewers want you to be honest with them,but they don’t have to be honest with you.I digress.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jul 2, 2008 at 6:11 pm

  Hi Cherish, You missed my teleconference last night. I ended up speaking to one person, but it was very helpful for him. I am more than happy to meet with you by phone, text message or IM to assist you with this hurdle. Let me know your availability. I am not available the remainder of this week. But my calendar opens back up next week. Let me know what will work for you. I am sorry to hear about the interview experience you had today. As far as the timing of the interview, 30 minutes or less is typically a bad sign for the candidate and/or the interview is not very good. Wither way, you definitely want to take more than 30 minutes to make an impact with an interviewer. Let’s talk. Let me know what will work for you.

• Cherish
  Jul 2, 2008 at 7:17 pm

  Hi Darlene,
  It’s too bad I missed the teleconference I
  thought maybe I wouldn’t get a word in edge wise with 10 people on the phone.The teleconference probably would’ve helped a lot.I’m available July 7th after 11:00 am you can e-mail me if there’s a number you would like me to reach you at or vice-versa,just let me know.
  Darlene I’ve been on job interviews where the interview was about 30 minutes and landed the job.I don’t get it,I’m taking a break from job hunting.I’m sick of sending out “Thank You” cards.I have this license that I’m so proud of and I can’t even get a foot in the door.

• Cherish
  Jul 2, 2008 at 7:22 pm

  Darlene,
  I’m not sure if my e-mail address shows up or not if it doesn’t let me know.Thanks!

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jul 2, 2008 at 11:46 pm

  Hi Cherish! I am happy to speak with you by phone. I am available in the evenings. I do have a day job. I coach and blog at night. I am available as early as 6:00 pm EST and I can meet as late you want. I do have your email address as well. It is only available to me as the blogger. We can talk through email as well, though because of the challenges you are facing with the job search, I would love an opportunity to speak to you by phone and then we can go from there. Have a great weekend. Please send me a note by email or comment to remind me of our appointment on Monday. If I can get free at work I will call you in the morning.

• Cherish
  Jul 8, 2008 at 2:09 am

  Hi Darlene,

  I sent you an e-mail on July 3rd at the e-mail address above darlingmcdaniel@gmail.com.I’m not sure if you recieved it,could you get back to me through e-mail or comment.

  Thanks

• Wayne
  Jul 11, 2008 at 11:37 am

  Hello Darlene,

  I was fired over timecard fraud. However, when I was asked to bring documents from one office to the other I was told to “stay on the clock.” I would have to swipe-out of the employee parking lot at one office and not authorized to access the second office. So, I would call the control center to gain access. Also, I completed work at home and was asked to keep track of the time, then submit it. I was fired due to the time amount I submitted. I am applying for other jobs and the question is have I ever been fired, yes or no. What do I do?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jul 11, 2008 at 12:06 pm

  Hi Wayne,
  Thank you for visiting Interview Chatter today. Your question - “yes” is the correct answer to the question on the application. Honesty is more important than getting the job.

  As far as what you do. That is a great question. I would recommend that you contact the organization and find out what they will say when a potential employer calls them to get a reference and to verify employment. Once you know what they will say, it will help you determine how much of the story you need to share in an interview.

  The last recommendation I have is you may want to consult an attorney - an employment attorney. If the information you shared is accurate and there are no other issues concerning you performance you may have a case. Can you prove that you were going to the other building, the work completed at home? If so, you may want to talk to someone else and get their take on the situation before you just walk away without a fight. If there are additional details or other issues with performance or time card issues that were discussed in the past, you will want to go back to my first recommendation. If there are more details to consider feel free to send me an email off line. I am happy to look at the situation and give you guidance on how to position it and frame a discussion about it in an interview. Let me know!

• Cynthia
  Jul 13, 2008 at 8:03 pm

  Similar to many of the former posters, I was fired from a job and am wondering what to do now in my job search. I was fired a few years ago, and since have held three jobs and obtained a graduate degree. With these previous jobs, they never checked my background, so it hasn’t been an issue until now.

  My current dilemma is this - I applied for a job and have had one interview. They called me back for a second interview (!!!), and also sent me their standard job application form through HR. On the first page, it says “have you ever been fired or asked to resign?”, to which the honest answer is yes (just once). After that, it says “if yes, please explain.” I am struggling with what to write in that box because the situation of my firing sounds a great deal more scandalous than it was.

  I was working in a treatment center, and formed friendly relationships with many of our clients. One of them expressed romantic interest in me after leaving the treatment center. I made it clear to him that while employed there, I could not pursue any relationship (friendship or otherwise) with him. However, he continued to stop by the treatment center for meetings and to call the center and speak to me (as many former clients did). Many of my co-workers were aware of the situation, and would make jokes about it. One co-worker heard these jokes, and went to my supervisor and told her that I was having a romantic relationship with a former client. I was called into the office and I explained that I was not having a relationship with this client, but did acknowledge that he continued to contact me. They felt that I had crossed a line, and fired me. I acknowledge that I handled the situation poorly - I should have more firmly discouraged his interest, and was definitely toeing the line by maintaining contact with him. I’ve gone on to success with other jobs, but I dread filling in that “if yes, please explain” box, because I cannot think of a way to explain this situation without sounding like I am defending a non-existent scandalous relationship with this person.

  Help!!

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jul 15, 2008 at 11:07 am

  Hi Cynthia,

  Thank you for visiting Interview Chatter. I apologize for the delay in my response to your comment. I am going to send you an email to see if we can speak by phone. You should receive an email in the next few minutes.

• What Do I Do If I’ve Been Fired?
  Jul 16, 2008 at 12:15 am

  […] here at Interview Chatter. The question is usually written in a comment on my most popular post, So You’ve Been Fired. I thought I would take a moment a restate some of my recommendations to people who have been […]

• If You Have Been Fired For Cause…
  Jul 21, 2008 at 11:26 pm

  […] what to do. There are a lot excellent post written about what you need to do. Check this one out: So, you’ve been fired. Lots of great comments from some of my readers. But this post is for those of you willing to admit […]

• Jared
  Jul 25, 2008 at 11:24 am

  Hi,
  I’ve recently been fired from my job and I’ve only worked there for short period of time (3 months). I had prior experience before from another company (3 yrs) that works on the same industry. I am wondering if I should put my 3 months experience on my resume. I talked about this with my old co-worker and he said I shouldn’t put it down on my resume since it’s a too short of time. However, I just went on an interview and the HR from that company said I should put it on my resume. I told her that I didn’t add it to my resume because it was too short of time and I am going to put it down on my application form. So should my 3 months experience be on resume? Please help. I am actually going to an interview with a different company next week and never brought up my previous experience on phone screen interviews since it was not never asked. Should I bring an updated resume and tell the interviewers about my previous experience OR only bring it up when asked?

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jul 25, 2008 at 11:30 am

  Hi Jared,

  Absolutely put the 3 month job on your resume. Why? Because if you don’t and you are asked about the three month gap or break in time, it becomes a difficult conversation. They will want to know why you omitted it. That assumes there was a problem. More is better and you don’t want to have gaps in time on your resume unless there is a very good reason. Like you were in the hospital, on disability. Something like that.

  One thing is for sure, you need to decide how you are going to respond to the 3 month job issue. You need a brief explanation for why you were let go after 3 months. Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

• Jared
  Jul 25, 2008 at 4:37 pm

  Thanks for the advice Darlene. One more question for my upcoming interview, should I bring an updated resume and have the interviewers see my previous experience on the updated resume? Or should I just wait until they ask about the time gap and bring it up? I don’t want it to have a negative effect since i left it out originally. Is there any particular advice for this situation? Maybe I should email them a copy beforehand? HELP!

  For future job applications, the three month experience will definitely be on my resume to avoid this situation like you said.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Jul 28, 2008 at 10:54 pm

  Hey Jared, please forgive my delay in responding to your follow-up question. YES! take the updated resume. All you have to say is I wanted to provide you with an updated resume, and give it to them. No further explanation is necessary. They will probably not ask any questions or think it strange. Most people have outdated resumes. Just be sure you have an answer to the question of why you were let go. That is more important than the fact that the information was not on the first resume. Please let me know if you have another question. I am alive and well and back on the grid! Have a great night!

• How Important is Your 3 Months Experience?
  Jul 28, 2008 at 11:14 pm

  […] from one of our readers I thought would be of interest to all. Take a look: I’ve recently been fired from my job and I’ve only worked there for short period of time (3 months). I had prior […]

• Jeff Thomas
  Aug 8, 2008 at 1:14 pm

  I was just laid off from my job. However, after speaking with HR to find out what info they would disclose, he said they will only verify employment, job title, general job description, and only verify income amount if presented with a figure (did he make this much? yes or no).

  Anyways, he said he would not give out any other details, including fired/laid off/quit. Or will not answer if the employee is re-hirable, etc.

  Based on this, my termination letter says based on company requirements yadda yadda, you are being terminated.

  So, even I don’t know exactly the reasons why I was let go. It could be related to performance issues (which I had with my boss.. which he gave be a bad review recently). However, the letter just gives the impression I’m laid off based on company re-structuring, etc.

  I “do” have the option in this case to say I quit (of course, would be dishonest.. but companies are dishonest with you anyways when the fire you) but I think it’s “worse” to say you left a job and better to just say you were laid off?

• Pam
  Aug 12, 2008 at 8:05 pm

  A position I have been coveting for months has recently became available with one of Fortune magazines, “100 Best Companies to Work For in America.”

  My resume contains two previous employers. I was with my last employer for 16 years until they shut down operations in my area. My previous employer fired me at just under a year. I had been hired as a secretary and later was given the additional duty of a shift supervisor. My skills as a secretary were never an issue, but my supervisory skills were not up to their standards, so I was fired. I want to note that this place is also no longer in business, either.

  I have the job I was fired from listed on my resume because of the secretarial duties I performed which is in direct relation to the job I am applying for, now. My resume only highlights the time I worked for these two employers and says nothing about reason for leaving. I was able to obtain an application for preview. They ask for a reason for leaving for each employer listed, and then in another section they ask have you ever been discharged or asked to resign from a position, if yes, please explain.

  I really want this job and I’m afraid my tarnished work history is going to get the application tossed without a chance to interview. Any suggestions are appreciated.

• Darlene McDaniel
  Aug 12, 2008 at 8:53 pm

  Hi Jeff,

  I want to apologize for the delay in my response. I am currently out of the country. I have gained access to my blog and saw your comment. Here are my thoughts:

  First Jeff, I will agree with you that companies are dishonest with employees. Unfortunately, that does not, nor should it give us a justification for being dishonest with companies. I believe in the universal principle/biblical principle, that what you reap, you will sow. Despite the inexcusable way that employers treat employees, do not let it be your reason for being dishonest. If you were terminated, say so. If it was a lay-off, say so. Be honest about why you were laid off and ensure that you give an explanation about what you learned.

  Second, if you are unclear about why you were let go, you need to get clarification about the reason. If for no other reason but for your information. If you don’t know why you were let go the likelihood that you will repeat history goes up exponentially. Get clear information from them. That will assist you in future conversations with potential employers.

  Lastly, you mention possible performance issues with your boss. Either there were performance issues or there were not. You do know whether you were not meeting expectations of your employer. If that is the reason for the termination, you need to look at that issue, evaluate your accountability and make some decisions about what you are willing to do with future employers. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. Have a great night. Thanks for visiting Interview Chatter!

• Darlene McDaniel
  Aug 12, 2008 at 9:08 pm

  Hi Pam,

  When writing the information about why you were terminated, how you frame your statements will be what will dismiss you from the process, not necessarily the fact that you were terminated more than 16 years ago.

  Keep in mind that you have 16 years of experience since the termination. Highlight your skills and abilities on the application. Be honest without volunteering too much information.

  Whenever you are explaining why you were let go from an organization, make sure you state what lessons you learned and what you will or have done differently in the future to ensure that it will not happen again. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. Thank you for visiting Interview Chatter!

• Karen
  Aug 15, 2008 at 11:58 am

  I live in NYS. My employer let me go, stated I didn’t seem very happy, long story, I wasn’t. I work in the dealership industry where everyone knows everyone. I recently applied for a position with a company where the manager I interviewed with had previously worked for the company I had been fired from so she knew my office manager well enough to call her personally and ask about my performance. NYS law states the only information the firing employer can give is how long I was employed there and what my salary was how am I protected from this vindictive office manager who could possibly have given negative information to potential employers if she knows them personally. And how do I prove she is doing this? This company I interviewed with liked me very much, they sent my resume over to the ownerand I had every qualification plus some that they were looking for and I never got called back for a second interview. I smell a rat.

• jennie
  Aug 19, 2008 at 5:52 pm

  I was asked to resign after my probation period ended, in lieu of being fired. It all boiled down to my assistant wanted me to do things her way and i as the lead teacher did them another way. my assistant was good friends with my supervisior. So now i am applying for other jobs and the question asked on the application is “Have you ever been discharged or requested to resign from a position? ” and explain how do i word this?????

• David
  Aug 20, 2008 at 9:21 pm

  Hello Darlene,

  I graduated from college with an Associates and a Bachelors last year and I found a good company to work for 2 months later. I was employed as a consultant for a supply chain management company which is pretty much unheard of. I was given a notice of separation after 11 months with the quote of “its not working out, we’re not a right fit for you”. In the days leading to my “separation” I was told that there was at least 2 other people who where waiting on the bench for projects. I’ve been getting interviews and when they ask me what happen at my last job, I tell them “it wasn’t a right fit for me” and I am honest when they ask me if I was fired, I mention the other employees waiting on the bench for projects but I never get that second interview or call back.

  I received vacation pay and 2 weeks additional pay after the separation so I don’t know if I was fired or let go or downsized!

  Its been 2 months with no results and I’m at my wits end and can’t make ends meet. Unemployment office is taking forever and I doubt that I will even qualify. I get more depressed with every day that goes by without a job. What do I do?

  Best Regards,

  Dave

• Darlene McDaniel
  Aug 21, 2008 at 12:10 am

  Hi Jennie and Karen, I want to apologize for my delayed response to your comments. I am still recovering from my travel to Ghana West Africa. I am back and I have your comments. Please hang in there. I am going to respond to each of your comments. Dave I will get to your comment as well. Thanks for your patience!

  Darlene

• Darlene McDaniel
  Aug 21, 2008 at 12:19 am

  Hi Karen, First thank you for visiting Interview Chatter. Second, you have a tough situation. Proving that the two people have a relationship is the first thing you would need to do in this situation. It is not something I would recommend that you attempt to do on your own. You need a good attorney. The question is, will an attorney take your case and help you fight. I don’t know, but I would highly recommend that you contact one and at least share what you perceive is happening. You will need proof. Again, that will be difficult to get. The only other thing that I would recommend in your situation is to contact the owner of the company that showed some interest. Ask for “feedback”. You will want to ask for feedback so that you can improve and land the next job. If he/she is willing to give you feedback about your interview in the company, it may shed some light on what is in your way in gaining employment. Please let me know if you have any addtional questions!

  Thanks, Darlene

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