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AT&T·Software Engineer·Recruiter / HR Screen·Intermediate

IntermediatePending
Sep 2026

Summary

Went in for a recruiter screen after getting fired, tried to spin the situation as gracefully as possible, and now I'm stuck waiting two weeks for an answer that's probably already a no.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

Are you currently employed, and if not, what happened at your last position?

Adaptability & Ambiguity
Author's notes

Said something like 'I concluded my time there a few weeks ago and I'm looking for the next opportunity.' Which, sure, technically true.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Answer directly and briefly about your employment status, then pivot to the reason for leaving your last role in a positive, forward-looking way. Frame any gap or departure as a deliberate step toward growth and alignment with the Software Engineer role at AT&T.

Pro tip: Never criticize a former employer or dwell on negative circumstances; instead, emphasize what you learned and how it prepared you for this opportunity. If there's a gap, mention any productive activities (courses, projects, open-source contributions) that kept your skills sharp.

1. State your current status clearly

Begin with a straightforward 'yes' or 'no' about your employment status. Avoid ambiguity or over-explaining.

2. Explain the reason for leaving (if applicable)

If you're not employed, briefly describe what happened at your last position in neutral, factual terms. Focus on restructuring, role elimination, or a mutual decision rather than personal conflict.

3. Highlight what you've done since

If there's a gap, mention productive activities like upskilling, freelancing, or personal projects that demonstrate continued growth and adaptability.

4. Connect to the new opportunity

Tie your situation to why you're excited about this role at AT&T, showing how your background aligns with their needs and your career goals.

Key Points to Mention

  • Your current employment status (employed, unemployed, or between roles)
  • A neutral, non-defensive reason for leaving your last position (e.g., layoff, restructuring, contract ended)
  • Any productive activities during a gap (e.g., online courses, side projects, open-source contributions)
  • Your enthusiasm for the Software Engineer role and AT&T's mission or technology stack
  • How your skills and experience make you a strong fit for the team
  • Your adaptability and eagerness to learn new technologies or methodologies

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.