Dismissal is not taboo: better to talk about it, but in the right way

What a bad word: dismissal.

Regardless of the reasons, a working relationship that breaks down leaves a mark on your CV and sometimes even on self-esteem. However, it can be avoided that that mark becomes an ugly scar, turning it, indeed, into a springboard towards new challenges.

Looking for new partnerships, getting back in the game and tackling a job interview are great ways to get started.

But how to handle the thorny topic in front of the examiner?

Because it is practically certain that the fateful question will come if any suspicions emerge from the curriculum, from some web search or from rumors.

Is it better to prepare an explanation prepackaged and sweetened, or confess the truth naked and raw, without too many euphemisms? Or maybe blame all previous employers? Alison Green, author of the blog “Ask a manager” and the essay of the same name, explains how to avoid missteps on the thorny issue of dismissal with 3 tips.

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  1. Better to tell the truth

In the world of recruiting, lies have short legs: we disseminate data behind us after every digital interaction, on websites and social networks, and our personal and professional lives are told online.

Declaring that you have voluntarily chosen to leave a company when you have been discharged is a highly risky temptation. A search on LinkedIn or a phone call to your previous employer would be enough for the recruiter to unmask you and, likely, you would burn a job opportunity in the bud.

Not to mention the fact that starting a professional relationship with a lie wouldn’t be the best of conditions.

  1. No to rivers of words

“Why did this happen?” This question is most likely being asked.

And to satisfy the curiosity of those in front of you, you should know that it is not necessary to dwell on detailed explanations or justifications because the topic of your dismissal should not monopolize the interview. Furthermore, with an unnecessarily long-winded answer, you risk appearing defensive.

Be synthetic and transparent: a few sentences are enough.

  1. Follow the script

The third tip is closely related to the previous one. In your brief answer, focus on two elements: what you have learned from the experience of the dismissal and the career goals you are aiming for.

Basically, you will need to highlight that you have treasured the past and that you know how to look to the future with a clear strategy. Alison Green also provides two sample tracks, which show the tone and style of communication to use.

Script number one: the assignment was inadequate for your skills; you have clarified your ideas on what your strengths and weaknesses are.

“It was my responsibility: the job I accepted required advanced skills that I didn’t have. I thought I would be able to catch up quickly, but I underestimated the things I needed to learn. They made the right choice and it was a relief for me to go back to what I did before. ”

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Script number two: the amount of work was excessive; you have learned that it is best to discuss with your managers to understand how to manage difficulties.

“The workload was very high and this led me to make mistakes. From this, I learned that, if the volume of work is so high, it is better to communicate the problem in a timely manner and make sure that you are in tune with the managers on the priorities “.

So if during a job interview the question about dismissal comes up, don’t panic.

Be brief and sincere, respond naturally and without anxiety, do not get defensive, show that you have treasured the experience.

Intellectual honesty and positive attitude can only put you in a good light in the eyes of the examiner.

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