Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?” (Best Answers from HR)

The Question Everyone Dreads
“Why did you leave your last job?” It’s the one interview question that makes even the most confident candidates sweat. Whether you were laid off, fired, stuck in a short stint, or simply trying to move on from a toxic company — how you answer this question can completely change the way an employer sees you.

As a former HR executive with 27+ years in the trenches, I’ve asked this question hundreds of times, and I’ve seen it tank great candidates — and I’ve also seen people nail it by keeping their answer short, neutral, and focused on the future.

In this video, I’ll cover:
✔️ How to reframe being fired, laid off, or leaving a job quickly without sounding defensive
✔️ Why oversharing details almost always backfires (and how to avoid it)
✔️ The biggest myths about background checks and references (and when employers really dig deeper)
✔️ Exact scripts you can steal to answer with confidence
✔️ Why this “dreaded” question can actually work in your favor if you handle it right

💡 The truth is: being fired, laid off, or leaving a role doesn’t define you. What matters is how you explain it — and how quickly you pivot to the value you bring next.

👉 Let me know in the comments: What’s the toughest interview question you’ve ever been asked? Your story might inspire a future video.

⚖️ Quick Disclaimer:
I’m not a lawyer — I just play one in HR meetings. 😉
Seriously though, this video isn’t legal advice. It’s based on my experience and meant to help you think through workplace situations. If you’re dealing with something serious (like a potential firing, discrimination, or retaliation), talk to a licensed employment attorney or other qualified professional who can give you guidance specific to your case.


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