The interviewer is interested in the circumstances regarding your separation from your previous job. They ask this question to determine if it was a personality clash, an ethical issue, a work attendance problem, or something else that caused you to leave your last job. Overall, the interviewer wants to see that you are honest and will be a good fit with the company culture and the team you will be assigned.

Being terminated or furloughed does not have to be an embarrassing or shameful thing. Be open and honest with the interviewer regarding your dismissal. Be sure to let the interviewer know you can provide positive references despite a previous termination or unfortunate separation from the company. If you voluntarily left your last position, describe why you left while avoiding speaking negatively about the situation.