how do I explain being fired on an application and interview?

An attorney would make things worse. If you did win- I wouldn't hire you regardless. I hire help, not trouble or whiners. Employers know that there are poor employers just as their are poor employees. Simply state that an unusual illness caused you to miss a lot of work and that your employer felt they had to have someone in the position, so they replaced you. IF the employer wants you to expand on that, you can- don't abuse yourself in the explanation, but do not lie. Neither make it a big deal; it just something that happened and you are moving on. IF they ask why you didn't go to a lawyer or labor relations, explain it was more important to get on with your life than complain about spilled milk. Placing blame elsewhere without having very sound reason indicates you don't take responsibility for yourself, and that is a big red flag. If I were interviewing you, doing that would end your chances on the spot.

If a company fires you- there are one of two reasons. Either you deserved to be fired because you weren't doing your job, or the company didn't recognize or appreciate your potential. Either way, You benefit- you either learn to do better next time, or you move on to find the better job you may never have found if you hadn't lost the last one.

Laying off is a different thing. That comes with a change of fortunes for the company, leaving them little choice, and does not taint your resume.

Good luck!

First, remember this: a prospective employer will only know what you tell them. Listen closely: do yourself a favor by NOT volunteering any information. Let the questions come to you! If you are asked why you no longer work at the previous place say very simply that your position was downsized. Notice I said YOUR POSITION...NOT YOU PERSONALLY! That would not be lying and it would keep you from going into unnecessary details. Talk about how the company was looking to cut costs, for example. That also would not be lying - based on what you've said - and would keep the conversation moving along. The law prohibits your previous employer from providing or discussing the specific circumstances that led to your termination. They won't do it 'cause it could mean a big lawsuit (and a big payday for you).

So, in summary...

1. Answer ONLY what you are asked.

2. Keep your answers short and to the point.

3. DO NOT VOLUNTEER ANY INFORMATION!!! (Don't get chatty with a recruiter...ever!)

Best wishes:)

Henry

Never admit to being fired unless you do not want the job. Companies are not allowed to say that you were fired when being approached for information only thing they are supposed to do is say yes you worked there from such in such a date until your left the company anything more than that is Vendetta crap.If you find you job search not producing fruit remove this employer from your work experience an set it up as a self contract job where you was your own boss.

I too had a gap in my resume that resulted from medical issues. If I am asked why I left that position, I am truthful in that I at the time could not perform due to medical issues but I have been released in good health from my physician and am eager to get back to work. I also agree with the point of never volunteer information that isn't asked.

Dont tell the truth Dont Tell huge Lies either explain you left the position due to medical issues that you found hard to cope with and resulted in you having to leave as you could not perform the job to the required standard at that time and have since had professional help (or summat along those lines) think carefully about how you word the reason it will work cos i once was booted from a job for alcohol abuse and have had several better jobs since good look

First, your ex-employer isn't going to say anything to your new employer except hire and termination date. There are too many legalities and most employers just aren't up to making waves. You were terminated because your health issues made you miss too much work; end of conversation. Start of new conversation: your health issues are 100% completely cured and you are ready to go to work.

You really don't have to provide the other 'letter' details. It isn't really an issue. Hope this helps.

You should consider the possibility that you were actually fired as being medically unfit for your normal duties. This is a valid reason for termination. An employer cannot be expected to "carry" someone no longer able to carry out their full duties due to serious illness or medical condition

Tell the truth.

And while you are looking for a new job contact the US Department of Labor and file a complaint.