> getting rejected like this is still a blow. I wanted to leave on my own terms. Do you have any previous Managers/Superiors who can serve as a professional re

> getting rejected like this is still a blow. I wanted to leave on my own terms. Do you have any previous Managers/Superiors who can serve as a professional reference and vouch for your skills & expertise? Was there a previous position where you delivered superior work? Do not lie, do not misrepresent your situation. Be candid-- Tell them you we're fired out of the blue. But your job engagement level had likely suffered when you realized the role/company wasn't a good strategic fit. Confidently add - 'My references will tell you that I'm a trustworthy, thoroughly professional, known as Top-Notch Developer who thrives on delivering out-of-the-box solutions for tough problems'. *You'll be surprised to know some of the most intelligent/productive/impactful talent tend to get fired at least once in their career. Manage your inner-game, move on!