How to get a job after being fired for misconduct? Depending on the circumstances, it may be difficult to find a new job after being fired for inappropriate conduct. Your potential employers may learn about the misconduct at your previous job at some point during the hiring process—they will need to be convinced about hiring you.
Get prepared for the interview—this can help you show signs of convincing improvements. You can persuade a hiring manager that you’ve grown from your mistakes in the past and that, if given the chance, you can be valuable to the company.
How to get a job after being fired for misconduct
You may secure a new job or even get back your old job if you do the following:
1. Disclose true information
Contrary to popular belief, some companies would rather hire people who have been fired instead of those who voluntarily left their jobs. It doesn’t happen very often that you get fired. The majority of job applications ask candidates to list the reasons they left their previous jobs. If you falsify those reasons, you could be disqualified. Thus, instead of explaining the mitigating circumstances, simply indicating a termination on the application form can get you the job.
You are not compelled to mention that you were fired from your previous job unless specifically asked, and such discussion may not even come up during the interview.
If the company intends to get in touch with your previous employers before making a job offer, you might want to bring it up right away. Hiring managers value candor and honesty. A quick, honest explanation may be sufficient if it’s clear that you possess the skills for the job. For example, if you lied to your previous boss and that got you fired, explain that you confessed the lie and explained the situation.
2. Be responsible
If you did nothing heinous in your last job, getting fired shouldn’t be a barrier to getting hired again in your sector. Employees in an at-will policy mean they can be dismissed without cause. As a result, recruiting managers are used to meeting with candidates who are seeking employment following a recent layoff.
Poor performance, excessive or inappropriate social media use, a history of tardiness, stealing from the office, drinking on the job, and other behaviors are common causes of termination. Whether a hiring manager will take a chance on you depends on how you respond to inquiries about getting dismissed.
Give a succinct account of what happened and accept accountability for any policy violations or errors in judgment without placing the blame elsewhere. If you’re humble and taking responsibility for your actions, little infractions are likely to be overlooked. Your previous employer can say “bad, but not false, things” about you in a reference—Legal Aid at Work.
3. Make an experience out of the situation
Be prepared for inquiries about the causes of your last termination. When discussing the circumstances surrounding your termination, remain composed and unruffled.
When addressing misconduct during a job interview, say you made a mistake, and will never do it again. Express regret disappointing your previous boss and co-workers.
Reframe your situation as a beneficial learning experience that has improved your understanding of the expected norms of professional conduct in the workplace. Mention that you’ll be sure to read the employee handbook and corporate policies in the future. Describe how the situation has caused you to improve and develop in your profession.
4. Focus on your skills
Focus the discussion on your qualifications for the job by mentioning your strong suit. Highlight your abilities, successes, credentials, and professional background that most closely match the job’s requirements.
The company may be more willing to forgive previous misconducts if you possess the skills. If your ability to think critically, manage your time effectively, or pay attention to detail was a weakness in your previous position, explain how you’ve improved.
Explaining serious misconduct from a background check is the most challenging task. If you have a criminal record, you may need to switch careers or wait a few years before applying for employment similar to those you had before you repair your reputation.
Employers can be persuaded that you won’t repeat the misconducts in your previous employment if you present strong references vouching for your reputation.
