No one ever wants to be fired from his/her job. It’s something that everyone hopes will never happen, however, the fact is that it happens to the best of us. The best way to deal with getting fired is to be prepared in advance. Handle the situation gracefully and try to make the most out of it.
Collect yourself
In your professional life, the most emotionally charged statement that you will ever come across is âWe have to let you goâ. Your heart will race and you will not be able to think clearly at that moment, even if you had a feeling that it was coming. Take a moment to collect yourself. There is nothing wrong in asking for some time from your boss to compose yourself before replying. This is for sure that your request will be granted because terminating someoneâs employment isnât pleasing even for your boss. Although you have been fired, but still, you have to handle the rest of the conversation professionally because you may have to ask for a reference.
Throw out emotions
Termination from a job results in a series of intense emotions ranging from anger to nervousness. You are likely to get involved in a heated argument with your superior under the influence of these negative emotions. However, this is not going to make things easier for your, in fact, it can land you in trouble further. It will be best for you to keep your cool and give a balanced reaction to the sudden turn of events. Do your best to approach the remainder of the conversation with calm integrity once you have processed the blow of being terminated. Because of these emotions you will be tempted to say things for which you may have to regret later. So try your best to have control over your emotions.
Take what you have left
While terminating an employee, employers often promise certain favors to them, however, the fact is that these promises are hardly kept. For instance, they may say that they have certain friends in the industry who can help you out in finding another job. While their intentions may be sincere at that time but in nine out of ten cases, the promise is forgotten as soon as you are out of the sight. So, itâs better to discuss with your superiors about the things to which you are entitled while you are still there. Few examples of these tangible things are final paycheck, insurance, any unpaid vacation or a written letter of recommendation. For your superiors, it’s back to the usual business as soon as you walk out of that office, therefore, this is the best opportunity for you to get the things which you have earned. You may have to spend a great deal of time and effort if you decide to track it all down later.
Get reference letters
You can have an extra advantage while applying for a job, if you have CEOs, CFOs and VPs as references on your resume. It is really one of the toughest moments for you when you are being fired. However, it is also a fact that your boss is not enjoying this experience either and that is why he is never going to miss an opportunity to do something nice for you. You will get a âbetterâ reference letter when they are emotional. Even if they say that they will do it later, then also thank them politely and ask for firm date on which you can get a reference letter. It is fact that your superiors will gush a bit while the iron is still hot.
Hold your head high
Although, it may be a very difficult time for you, but still try to do everything within your power to maintain integrity. When you are cleaning out your desk, do not hang your head in front of your staff. Be honest with your co-workers and team members and say goodbye gracefully. Tell them it was terrific working with them, shake hands and give hugs. Also, donât forget to have contact information of those who may assist you in your job hunt. It will become uncomfortable even for your colleagues if you handle the situation by ignoring everyone, stomping out and throwing things around. It is better to have people saying that your termination is a big loss for the company rather than the company is better off without you. Leave a good impression on your colleagues and team members as they can be called on by prospective employers for references.
