What Not To Say Or Do When Fired: Top 10 Tips

Getting fired can be a devastating experience, both emotionally and financially. It can leave you feeling lost, angry, and confused, and it can take a toll on your self-esteem and confidence. However, how you respond to being fired can make all the difference in your career and personal life moving forward.

1. Don’t React Emotionally

It’s natural to feel angry, hurt, and frustrated when you’re fired. However, it’s important to keep your emotions in check and avoid reacting impulsively. Don’t lash out at your employer or colleagues, or say anything that you might regret later. Take a deep breath, and try to remain calm and composed.

Example:

When John was fired from his job, he was devastated. However, instead of reacting emotionally, he took some time to process his feelings and plan his next steps. He reached out to his trusted friends and family for support, and sought professional counseling to deal with the emotional fallout of being fired.

2. Don’t Blame Others

It’s easy to blame your employer, co-workers, or external factors for your firing. However, taking responsibility for your own actions and performance is essential if you want to learn from the experience and move forward. Don’t make excuses, or try to shift the blame onto others.

Example:

When Maria was fired from her job, she initially blamed her boss for being unfair and unreasonable. However, after reflecting on her performance and behavior at work, she realized that she had not been meeting her targets, and had been neglecting her responsibilities. She took ownership of her mistakes, and vowed to learn from them and improve in her next job.

3. Don’t Burn Bridges

Even if you’re angry and hurt, it’s important to maintain a professional demeanor and avoid burning bridges with your former employer or colleagues. Don’t badmouth them on social media, or speak ill of them to potential employers. Keep your interactions polite and respectful, and try to leave on good terms.

Example:

When Sarah was fired from her job, she made sure to thank her boss and colleagues for the opportunities and experiences she had gained while working there. She offered to help with the transition, and left on good terms with everyone. As a result, she was able to secure a positive reference from her former boss, which helped her land her next job.

4. Don’t Sue Immediately

If you believe you were fired unfairly or illegally, it’s important to seek legal advice before taking any action. Don’t threaten to sue or file a lawsuit immediately, as this can escalate the situation and damage your reputation. Consult with a lawyer to determine your options and the best course of action.

Example:

When Tom was fired from his job, he suspected that his employer had violated his employment contract. However, instead of threatening legal action, he consulted with a lawyer to review his contract and determine his rights. He was able to negotiate a favorable settlement with his former employer, without resorting to a lawsuit.

5. Don’t Lie or Exaggerate

When you’re looking for a new job after being fired, it can be tempting to lie or exaggerate your experience and qualifications. However, this can backfire and damage your credibility and reputation. Be honest and transparent about your situation, and focus on highlighting your strengths and achievements.

Example:

When Jane was interviewing for a new job after being fired from her previous one, she was upfront about the circumstances of her firing, and explained what she had learned from the experience. She focused on her skills and accomplishments, and provided references from previous employers who could vouch for her abilities and character.

6. Don’t Ignore Your Finances

Getting fired can have a significant impact on your finances, especially if you don’t have a safety net or emergency fund. Don’t ignore your finances, or wait until it’s too late to take action. Start looking for new sources of income, cut back on unnecessary expenses, and seek financial advice if necessary.

Example:

When Michael was fired from his job, he was worried about how he would pay his bills and support his family. However, instead of giving up, he took action to improve his financial situation. He started freelance work, cut back on his expenses, and consulted with a financial advisor to create a budget and savings plan.

7. Don’t Stop Networking

Being fired can make you feel isolated and disconnected from your professional network. However, it’s important to stay connected and continue networking, even if you’re not currently employed. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and reach out to former colleagues and mentors for support and advice.

Example:

When Lisa was fired from her job, she felt like she had lost her professional identity and network. However, she made an effort to stay connected and active in her industry. She attended conferences and networking events, joined a professional association, and reached out to former colleagues for advice and referrals. As a result, she was able to find a new job quickly, and with the help of her network.

8. Don’t Give Up

Getting fired can be a setback, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your career or dreams. Don’t give up on yourself, or let the experience define you. Use it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and redefine your goals and priorities.

Example:

When Alex was fired from his job, he felt like he had failed and lost his sense of purpose. However, he didn’t give up on his dreams. He took some time to reflect on his passions and interests, and decided to start his own business. He used the skills and experience he had gained from his previous job to create a successful venture, and found a new sense of fulfillment and confidence.

9. Don’t Neglect Your Health

Being fired can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Don’t neglect your health and well-being during this time. Take care of yourself by eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and seeking professional help if necessary.

Example:

When Laura was fired from her job, she struggled with depression and anxiety. However, she didn’t ignore her mental health. She sought professional counseling, joined a support group, and practiced self-care by exercising and spending time outdoors. As a result, she was able to overcome her challenges and move forward with her life.

10. Don’t Forget to Learn

Being fired can be a valuable learning experience, if you approach it with an open mind and willingness to grow. Don’t forget to reflect on what you could have done differently, and what you can learn from the experience. Use it as an opportunity to gain new skills, knowledge, and perspectives.

Example:

When Carlos was fired from his job, he was devastated. However, he used the experience as a learning opportunity. He took courses to improve his skills, attended workshops to expand his knowledge, and volunteered to gain new experiences. As a result, he was able to find a new job that was more fulfilling and aligned with his values.

Conclusion

Getting fired can be a challenging and stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to define you. By following these tips, you can respond to being fired in a positive and productive way, and use it as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

FAQs

1. Can I sue my employer for firing me?

You may have legal grounds to sue your employer for firing you, depending on the circumstances of your termination. However, it’s important to seek legal advice before taking any action.

2. How do I explain being fired to potential employers?

Be honest and transparent about the circumstances of your firing, and focus on what you learned from the experience. Highlight your skills and achievements, and provide references who can vouch for your abilities and character.

3. How can I stay positive after being fired?

Focus on your strengths and accomplishments, and use the experience as an opportunity to learn and grow. Seek support from trusted friends and family, and practice self-care by taking care of your physical and mental health.