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How to Talk About Your Layoff Without Raising Red Flags in Job Interviews

Plus: Here's why you're getting interviews, but no job offers.

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In Today’s Newsletter:

  • How To Talk About Your Layoff In Interviews - And how to do it without raising red flags.

  • In The News - Workers are building resentment towards employers & women make up only 29% of the AI workforce.

  • J.T. Talks Jobs - Here’s why you’re getting job interviews, but no offers.

  • Resources We Recommend - DataCamp’s Black Friday Sale is here!

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How to Talk About Your Layoff Without Raising Red Flags in Job Interviews

The Response That's Sabotaging Your Interviews

Ever been asked why you left your last job during an interview? If you've experienced a layoff, you might be tempted to explain with something like: "Well, there was a layoff... I had great performance reviews before that, and it was really unexpected." While this seems like a natural response, it's actually setting off alarm bells for hiring managers. Why? Because emotional or defensive answers make interviewers wonder what you're not telling them.

The Psychology Behind the Question

When interviewers ask about your previous employment, they're not just collecting facts; they're evaluating how you process and present challenging career moments. Remember, hiring managers know there are multiple sides to every story. When we respond with emotion or defensiveness, we inadvertently create doubt in their minds.

The Winning Formula

Here's the good news: there's a simple, powerful way to address this question that will actually impress hiring managers. The key is to be factual, clear, and concise. Here's your template: "That's a great question. I was part of a reduction in force where [X] people were laid off, and I was one of them."

That's it. No defensive explanations needed. No emotional undertones. Just the straightforward facts.

The Secret Sauce: Experience + Learn = Grow

Want to really knock your answer out of the park? Add a growth perspective. Here's how to level up your response: "That's a great question. I was part of a reduction in force in [Month] where [X] people were laid off. This experience taught me something valuable—every job is temporary, and career readiness is crucial. While I loved my position, this situation has made me more strategic about my career development. I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and eager to apply both my skills and these new insights in my next role."

This approach shows you're not just a survivor; you're someone who turns challenges into growth opportunities. It demonstrates emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and resilience—all qualities employers value.

Why This Approach Works

By owning your narrative without being defensive, you reclaim your power in the interview. You're not playing the victim or making excuses; you're showing how you've grown from the experience. This kind of self-aware professional is exactly who companies want to hire.

Remember, it's not just what you say—it's how you say it. Practice delivering your response calmly and confidently until it feels natural. The goal is to convey that while a layoff was part of your journey, it doesn't define your professional story.

Ready to master more interview techniques like this one? Take advantage of our free 7-day trial at Work It DAILY, where you'll get access to our comprehensive interview prep resources. Plus, you can join our live coaching sessions where we dive deep into strategies like these and many more!

Join us in taking your interview game to the next level. Your next great opportunity is waiting!

You’ve got this!

Cassidy O’Donnell

In The News

J.T. Talks Jobs

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