What Should You Do if You Think You Might Get Fired Tomorrow?
If you’re worried about losing your job tomorrow, we’ve gathered nine insightful tips from industry leaders and coaching professionals. From transforming fear into self-improvement to initiating open communication with supervisors, these experts provide a roadmap to navigate this challenging situation. Let’s dive into their advice.
- Transform Fear into Self-Improvement
- Gather and Organize Essential Documents
- Understand the Company’s Termination Policies
- Express Gratitude to Your Colleagues
- Plan Finances and Create an Emergency Fund
- Assess the Situation and Develop an Action Plan
- Review Your Employment Contract and Company Policies
- Document Achievements and Update Your Resume
- Initiate Open Communication with Supervisors
Transform Fear into Self-Improvement
When faced with the threat of a potential job loss, I recommend transforming your anxiety into both a productive tool and an opportunity for growth. As a psychology expert and life coach, I’ve learned that our fears can propel us into effective action when properly managed. This means that it’s time for introspection and a self-awareness evaluation.
Often, the fear of getting fired highlights our insecurities and areas we need to improve. By understanding these, you can enhance not only your future employability but also your self-esteem and resilience.
Bayu Prihandito
Psychology Expert, Life Coach, Founder, Life Architekture
Gather and Organize Essential Documents
It’s important to remain calm and take appropriate steps to protect your interests. Gather important documents and information that you may need in the future. Collect and organize essential documents, such as employment contracts, performance reviews, and any relevant correspondence or evidence related to your work.
This information may be valuable if you need to discuss the situation with human resources, seek legal counsel, or file for unemployment benefits.
Kelli Anderson
Career Coach, Resume Seed
Understand the Company’s Termination Policies
While there may be good reasons why you might think your employer will fire you on short notice, such as a recent wave of layoffs within the company or sustained poor performance, it’s important not to let this assumption cause you to act unprofessionally or make rash decisions.
In other words, you should still show up for work and get on with your day as per usual.
However, taking proactive steps to protect your interests will allow you to be better prepared. One of the most critical actions you can take is to familiarize yourself with your company’s termination policies and your employee rights. This includes information such as severance pay, unused PTO, and non-compete agreements you may have signed at the beginning of your employment, which could continue to affect you even after termination.
Understanding your company’s specific policies can give you insights into what might trigger a dismissal, how the process works, and what you can expect in such a situation.
Sebastian Morgan
Senior Content Specialist, CV Genius
Express Gratitude to Your Colleagues
If I got fired tomorrow, I would spend today saying my thank-yous. As naive as it may sound, that’s how I actually feel.
My job gives me tons of satisfaction, and that’s the first company where I can combine my writing and research skills. How could I not be grateful for the chance to spread my wings? Also, I’ve met many talented, inspiring people who supported me whenever I needed it. We’ve been brainstorming ideas, laughing, and having fun at integration meetings. Should it end just like that? I don’t think so. They all should know I appreciate their presence at this point in my professional life and beyond.
On the one hand, I would be angry and disappointed to get fired. On the other, I believe that opening a new chapter calls for ending the previous one with no regrets.
Agata Szczepanek
Community Manager, MyPerfectResume
Plan Finances and Create an Emergency Fund
If you’re expecting to get fired, then you’d have to know that your cash flow will be severely impacted soon enough. For this, you need to start planning your finances and anticipate the very near future implications of being unemployed to your money. This is why creating an emergency fund is very important, and which I wholeheartedly endorse.
Nobody knows how long you will be out of a job, but if you are prepared financially to tackle your period of unemployment, whether long or short, then you will have no worries about all things money. So, before things get worse, plan your finances as soon as possible before you get fired.
Samantha Hawrylack
Founder, How To FIRE
Assess the Situation and Develop an Action Plan
Having been in a similar situation recently, I understand the toll such a situation takes mentally. However, the first thing you should do is calmly assess the situation and then develop an action plan to turn things around. This will help you gain a new perspective to move forward in your work life.
Faizan Khan
Public Relations and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy UK
Review Your Employment Contract and Company Policies
Familiarize yourself with your employment contract and company policies related to termination and severance benefits. These documents hold the key to understanding your rights and entitlements, and there are a few things that you need to be aware of.
First, decipher the termination clause to understand the conditions and reasons under which your employment may be terminated. Then, review the provisions related to severance benefits, if any, in your contract. Some contracts may outline the compensation or benefits you are entitled to in case of termination.
Also, check if any notice period applies to your situation. Juxtapose your contract and company policies with legal obligations, ensuring the company adheres to employment laws and regulations. If you suspect any violations, consult with a legal professional.
By thoroughly reviewing your employment contract and company policies, you clarify your rights, entitlements, and the procedures the company must follow.
Nina Paczka
Community Manager, Resume Now
Document Achievements and Update Your Resume
If you suspect that you might get fired tomorrow, it’s essential to stay calm and take proactive steps to prepare yourself for the potential outcome. First, document your achievements, contributions, and any positive feedback you’ve received from colleagues or supervisors. Update your resume and start networking to explore other job opportunities.
Aviad Faruz
CEO, Know Mastery
Initiate Open Communication with Supervisors
I recommend taking a proactive approach if you suspect termination tomorrow. Initiate open communication with your supervisor or HR to address concerns and seek clarity on the situation. Express your willingness to address any performance issues and request constructive feedback for improvement. Remaining professional and receptive to feedback is crucial.
At TechAhead, we prioritize transparent communication and personal growth. Although our focus is on long-term career opportunities, we understand unforeseen circumstances can occur. By addressing concerns directly, you have a chance to resolve issues and showcase your commitment to self-improvement.
Challenges can lead to new opportunities. Maintain a positive mindset, reflect on the experience, and use it as a stepping stone to new career prospects.
Vikas Kaushik
CEO, TechAhead
Submit Your Answer
Would you like to submit an alternate answer to the question, “What’s one thing to do if you think you might get fired tomorrow?”
