How to Talk About Your Layoff in a Job Interview Without Losing Confidence

One of the most common questions I get from jobseekers is this: “How do I talk about my layoff in an interview without sounding uncertain or defensive?”

If you’ve recently been laid off—especially from federal service—this question hits close to home. And I get it. It’s not just about explaining the gap; it’s about managing the emotions that come with it.

Here’s what I want you to know: Being laid off isn’t a red flag. How you talk about your layoff in a job interview is what sets the tone.

1. Don’t Apologize—Normalize It

Layoffs are more common than ever. Employers understand this. Entire departments get cut, contracts shift, budgets dry up. It’s not always personal—and most hiring managers know that.

When you bring it up, avoid sounding unsure or overly apologetic. Here’s one approach:

“Due to a department-wide restructure, my position was eliminated. Since then, I’ve focused on skill-building and positioning myself for roles where I can make a stronger impact.”

Short. Clear. Professional.

2. Focus on What You’ve Done Since

Use the layoff as a transition point—not the headline of your story. Employers respect candidates who stay proactive during a career gap.

Share how you’ve used the time:

• Took a course or certification?

• Volunteered or consulted?

• Reassessed your goals and career direction?

That signals resilience—and that’s a quality hiring teams remember.

3. Keep It Brief, Then Shift the Conversation

Here’s a structure you may use:

• Acknowledge the layoff factually

• Highlight what you did after

• Refocus on the opportunity at hand

Example:

“When the agency underwent staffing cuts, my position was one of many impacted. I used the time to complete a certification in data analysis and expand my skills. Now I’m excited about the chance to apply those skills in a role like this one, where solving real challenges is the focus.”

4. Practice It Until It Feels Natural

This part matters more than most people realize. You don’t want your tone to sound hesitant or emotional. Rehearse your response until it flows with calm confidence. It’s not just what you say—it’s how you say it.

5. Don’t Let the Layoff Dominate the Interview

You bring more to the table than a job you lost.

What hiring managers care about most is how you’ll add value to their team. The layoff is just part of the context. Let your strengths, results, and professional clarity lead the way.

Still Not Getting Interviews?

If you’ve been applying and not hearing back—there may be more going on than just your interview delivery.

Download my eBook: 6 Hidden Reasons You’re Not Getting Called Back for Job InterviewsIt breaks down the behind-the-scenes mistakes even smart professionals make—and how to fix them fast.

Need personalized support? Book a 1:1 Resume Review Consultation and get real-time, expert feedback to help your resume reflect the results and value you bring—not just the tasks you’ve completed.

Your layoff doesn’t define you. How you show up next? That’s where your power is.