It is extremely important to:
Keep Your Answers Concise.
"Our firm was acquired and management brought in a team that they were familiar with. That's understandable to me but the result was that I was offered assignments that were at a level below where I was with little opportunity to return to my previous level. Rather than remain for the inevitable layoff, I've decided to look for a new position."
Speak positivelyDo not criticize management for decisions they've made. Do not appear angry. A matter of fact attitude will dispel doubt far better than rage ever will. By looking at the interviewer square in the eyes and preparing your concise answer, most people are persuaded that you are being sincere . . . even though we all know the best liars can look someone square in the eye and lie to us.
Speak about what you learned from this experience.Although this is a tough interview question in itself, anticipate this question and be prepared to speak of the growth opportunity you derived from the experience or from the firm. If you made mistakes and can speak to those with sincerity (and without shooting yourself in the foot), firms will see that you are someone who can learn and grow.
And sometimes the right answer is to say, "I've thought about my experience with XYZ quite a lot and, the fact is, my performance was always strong . . . as a matter of fact my performance reviews are glowing and managers always found me to be an important contributor. No, I can't say I made mistakes and I as happy to help my firm transition to the new parent company."
REMEMBER: When they ask qualifying follow up questions, just stay with your original answer and state the facts!
Jeff Altman
The Big Game Hunter
www.TheBigGameHunter.us
© 2007 all rights reserved.
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