Question - Why have you been out of work so long ?
Answer -
You want to emphasize factors which have prolonged your job search by your own choice.
Example: “After my job was terminated, I made a conscious decision not to jump on the first opportunities to come along. In
my life, I’ve found out that you can always turn a negative into a positive IF you try hard enough. This is what I determined
to do. I decided to take whatever time I needed to think through what I do best, what I most want to do, where I’d like to do
it…and then identify those companies that could offer such an opportunity.”
“Also, in all honesty, you have to factor in the recession (consolidation, stabilization, etc.) in the (banking, financial
services, manufacturing, advertising, etc.) industry.”
“So between my being selective and the companies in our industry downsizing, the process has taken time. But in the end, I’m
convinced that when I do find the right match, all that careful evaluation from both sides of the desk will have been well
worthwhile for both the company that hires me and myself.
Tell me honestly about the strong points and weak points of your boss (company, management team, etc.)
Remember the rule: Never be negative. Stress only the good points, no matter how charmingly you’re invited to be critical.
Your interviewer doesn’t care a whit about your previous boss. He wants to find out how loyal and positive you are, and
whether you’ll criticize him behind his back if pressed to do so by someone in this own company. This question is your
opportunity to demonstrate your loyalty to those you work with.