Job Interview Answer : Why Were You Fired?

Fired from your job? Don't know what to say in an interview? Career expert and author, Joyce Lain Kennedy, shares her twelve best job interview answers to the question "Why were you fired?"

1. Being cut loose was a blessing in disguise. Now I have an opportunity to explore jobs that better suit my qualifications and interests. My research suggests that such an opportunity may be the one on your table. Would you like to hear more about my skills in working with new technology?

2. My competencies were not the right match for my previous employer's needs but it looks like they'd be a good fit in your organization. In addition to marketing and advertising, would skills in promotion be valued here?

3. Although circumstances caused me to leave my first job, I was very successful in school and got along well with both students and faculty. Perhaps I didn't fully understand my boss's expectations or why he released me so quickly before I had a chance to prove myself.

4. The job wasn't working out so my boss and I agreed that it was time for me to move on to a position that would show a better return for both of us. So here I am, ready to work.

5. After thinking about why I left, I realize I should have done some things differently. That job was a learning experience and I think I'm wiser now. I'd like the chance to prove that to you.

6. A new manager came in and cleaned house in order to bring in members of his old team. That was his right but it cleared my head to envision better opportunities elsewhere.

7. Certain personal problems, which I now have solved, unfortunately upset my work life. These problems no longer exist and I'm up and running strong to exceed expectations in my new job.

8. I wanted my career to move in a different direction, and I guess my mental separation set up the conditions that led to my departure. But by contrast, the opportunity we're discussing seems to be made for me and I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility.

9. I usually hit it off very well with my bosses, but this case was the exception that proved my rule of good relationships. We just didn't get on well. I'm not sure why.

10. My job was offshored to India. That's too bad because people familiar with my work say it is superior and fairly priced.

11. I outlasted several downsizings but the last one included me. Sign of the times, I guess.

12. I was desperate for work and took the wrong job without looking around the corner. I won't make that mistake again. I'd prefer an environment that is congenial, structured and team-oriented, where my best talents can shine and make a substantial contribution.

Kennedy also says, "Practice in advance what you'll say. Then keep it brief, keep it honest and keep it moving." That way, you'll get past the sticky issue of getting fired and can move on to your skills and why you're qualified for the job.

Taken from : JobSearch.About.Com

Resignation Letter

HRD Department

PT. ...

(complete address)

(city, state, zip)

Dear Mr/Mrs,

After a serious considerable thought and soul-searching. I have decided to resign my position as an ... in PT. .. effective on (date). I assure you it was not an easy decision to make, and I want to acknowledge with deep thanks your much kindness and support to me during the years I worked with you.

Although I have enjoyed working with you and have learned a great deal from the training I received from you, but I would really like to pursue another career which is more challenging and promising for my future advancement.

My best wishes to you always. Don't be surprised to get some telephone calls from me, asking for advice and perhaps a sympathetic broad shoulder. I value the experiences I have received at PT. ..., and I'm confident that it will be very useful to me in my future career.

Sincerely yours,

(your name)

Cover Letter : Secretary

Dear [Recipient Name]:

I am writing in response to your advertisement for a secretary in the July 10 edition of the Elm Street News. It would be a pleasure to meet with you so that I might demonstrate how my abilities fit your needs precisely.

As you’ll see from the enclosed resume, I am proficient in a variety of computer software programs as well as in stenography. I am experienced in handling general office duties and answering phones cordially and courteously.

What my resume does not reveal is my professional demeanor and appearance. In a business environment, these qualities are of the utmost importance in dealing with clients as well as co-workers. In me, you’ll discover a reliable, detail-oriented, and extremely hard-working associate - one who will serve as a model to encourage other staff members to demonstrate the same high standard of professionalism.

If you will contact me at (425) 555-0198, we can schedule an appointment.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Enclosure

Respond to a Job Advertisement and Request an Interview

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to you in response to your Internet advertisement requesting applicants for the position of Technical Writer in Springfield University's archaeology laboratory. I hold bachelor's degrees in archaeology and English and have three seasons' experience in excavation and lab work, including data entry, artifact cataloging, and preparations for the various methods of artifact dating. In addition, I wrote the chapter detailing survey methods for Dr. John Doe's "Final Report on the Centerville Field School Project." This work involved transcribing the field notes onto Laboratory of Anthropology forms, mapping and recording sites by section, township, and province, as well as creating a narrative description of the project's survey methods.

The years spent in the English department have prepared me for the challenges of writing for a variety of readers, and much of my creative writing has been published. Also, under the guidance of Dr. Doe I have directed my efforts within archaeology toward writing. Archaeology needs writers to make it interesting, especially in this time of budget cuts and battles over land use.

I believe I would qualify as "proficient" in the use of most of the popular spreadsheet programs and other relevant computer applications. I have spent several months entering data and crunching numbers in the service of archaeology.

Please see the attached resume for further details of my qualifications. I will gladly provide references at your request. I can be reached at 555-5555. I look forward to meeting you in person and discussing my suitability for this position.

Sincerely Yours,
[Your Name]