Help! I have been fired!

November 26, 2011|Employers, How to find a job, Tips At work| No comments yet

Getting pink slipped is disturbing at best, even if you had an inkling it might occur. The loss of a job is a life-altering experience but knowing how to handle the situation and what to do afterwards can make all the difference in your transition.

Handle It With Integrity

Although it’s understandable to feel upset or angry, reacting with strong emotions is the last thing you should do. Take a deep breath, calm yourself quickly and respond with a professional demeanor. Keep your voice low and your words slow to avoid adding stress to the situation. If you need a moment to calm down, ask if you can take a moment and continue the conversation shortly.

Talk About Options

When firing occurs due to a company restructuring, there might be other options for you within the company or as a contractor. Ask about the company’s direction and needs. Focus in on areas of expertise and offer suggestions and ideas. A contract position provides you with something for the short-term as you search for permanent work.

Begin Your Job Search Immediately

Taking a few days to wallow in self-pity is a counterproductive way to deal with a serious situation. Getting fired is difficult, but you’ll feel better knowing you’re taking immediate, decisive action to remedy the situation. Start applying for new jobs as quickly as possible. Once you’ve applied to all known positions, contact companies in your field to acquire about openings. The worst that can happen is they will say “No,” which doesn’t leave you any worse off than you were when you contacted them.

Stay Positive

It’s hard to maintain a positive attitude when you’ve just lost your job, but the attitude you present to potential employers has a big impact on whether or not you get hired. Maintain professionalism and don’t discuss financial hardships in the hopes of playing on a potential employer’s sympathies. Remember, from the perspective of the company you’re interviewing to see what you can do for them, not the other way around.

Utilize Networking

If you’re not familiar with the process of networking, now is the time to get involved. Employ social networking through venues such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to let potential employers know what you have to offer. Communicate with friends, family and community networking groups to broaden your job search potential.

Getting fired doesn’t have to be the end of the world. In fact, it can end up turning out to be the best thing when you find yourself in a work situation you enjoy even more than the last.