Role-specific Getting Laid Off Interview Questions & Answers:

1. How will you be considered for rehire from a layoff list?

Hiring processes differ for employees based on whether the vacancy being filled is represented by a labor union or not. For non-represented positions, consideration for rehire will be in accordance with rules and the employer's layoff procedure. For represented positions, hiring is done in accordance with the agreement. The information presented here applies to non-represented positions.

2. What should you do if you get call for an interview while you are laid off?

When you are called for an interview, you may ask the employer to send you the position description and any information about their organization so you can review it before your interview.
As with any interview, be prepared to detail your skills and to discuss what makes you a good fit for the employer and for the position. The employer is under no obligation to hire you so be prepared to sell your skills. It is a good idea to take your updated resume with you.

3. What are the alternates if there is no lay off option found?

If there is no layoff option found then the employer must determine if there is an available position in lieu of separation that meets the following:
☛ The position is at the same or lower salary range maximum as the position the employee is being laid off from.
☛ The position is vacant and less than comparable or held by a probationary employee or an employee in a temporary appointment.
☛ The position is one for which the employee meets the competencies and other position requirements.

4. Will you be eligible for lay off registers?

Individual employers may define in their layoff procedures what they consider a reasonable commute. If an employer offers and you accept a position that is beyond what the employer's layoff procedure has defined as reasonable, you may be eligible to be placed on the layoff list for the job class in which you have accepted the layoff option.

5. How many notices will you receive before layoff?

Permanent employees must receive at least fifteen calendar days notice unless employer and employee agree to waive the fifteen days notice period. Probationary employees must receive at least one calendar days notice.

6. When do you get your name on lay off list?

You can get your name on layoff lists as soon as you receive written notice of the layoff, including the effective date. You may be eligible to have your name on more than one layoff list.

7. What is an internal lay off list?

The internal layoff list is for use by the employer that laid you off. Each higher education institution and some government employers maintain their own internal layoff lists. Your layoff letter should advise you if your employer maintains this list.

8. What would happen to your salary if you are rehired from a laid off list?

An employee's salary is retained if it is within the new range. If it is not in the new range, the employing official may set the salary at the maximum of the range or retain the employee's previous base salary depending on their salary determination policy. These options apply to:
☛ Employees appointed to a lower level position as a layoff options.
☛ Employees that accept a voluntary demotion in lieu of layoff.

9. List a few ways to respond, if you are asked why you left your last job?

Here are a few ways you can respond to the question:
☛ Reduction in force (RIF)
☛ Downsizing or reorganization
☛ Permanent layoff
☛ Temporary layoff

10. How would you prepare your explanation for your lay off before you are asked about it?

Rather than squirm in your seat while you figure out how to discuss your involuntary separation, think through your answer in advance so you can provide the right response for the situation.
Follow these simple rules when you answer:
☛ Keep your answer brief.
☛ Keep your answer positive.
☛ Share something you learned through the process.