Last updated:
Explaining a layoff in an interview
Interviewers ask because they want to understand what happened and what you will do next. A short, factual answer that moves on to your work usually serves you best. Say only what is true.
The short answer
- Give the fact in a sentence, without blame: what changed at the company and that your role was affected.
- Move to what you did and what you are looking for.
- Keep it under a minute, and stop when you have said it.
Three examples
These are made up to show the shape. Use your own facts.
In March the company reduced its workforce by about a fifth, and my role on the analytics team was one of them. Over four years I built the weekly forecasting reports the sales team used, and I am looking for a role where I can keep doing that kind of work with a bigger team.
Why it works: One fact, no blame, then your work and your direction.
My team was closed when the company changed its product focus. Before that I led the onboarding project that cut set-up steps for new customers, and I would like to bring that experience to a company with a similar customer base.
Why it works: Names the reason in plain words, then a specific result you can back up.
The company shut down after it could not raise its next round. I spent two years there running operations for the whole business, which gave me a close view of how every department works together, and I am now looking at operations roles in growing companies.
Why it works: A closure is easy to explain. Lead with what the experience gave you.
A template
"[What happened to the company or team]. My role was affected. [One thing you did there that is relevant]. I am looking for [the kind of role], where I can [what you want to do]."
Questions that often follow
- "Why you and not someone else?" You may not know the full reason. Say what you know ("it was decided by team and project, not by individual") only if it is true; otherwise say you were told the role was affected and move to your work.
- "Would your old manager speak to us?" Check with a former manager or colleague before you list them, and tell them to expect a call.
- "What have you been doing since?" Name the search, any course, project or volunteer work, in a sentence.
- "Are you worried about gaps?" Answer with your plan and your recent work, not an apology.
Avoid
- Criticising your old employer or colleagues.
- Claiming it was unrelated to you if you do not know that.
- Long explanations. Interviewers read length as unease.
Practise
Say your answer out loud three times, then give it to a friend. Our planner has a block for interview practice. See also your first week and rebuilding a routine.
Track your applications and find jobs that fit in Second Summit (free during beta).
Browse open jobs by role and city, with the pay employers list and who is hiring.