4 Big Signs You’re Getting Fired, and How to Recover

You might have the feeling that something’s just not right at work and that your days are numbered. If your company is downsizing or going through a big merger, you could be on the chopping block. Likewise if you recently dropped the ball on a big project. How can you tell if you’re about to be fired, and what do you do if you are?

Warning Signs You Might Be Fired Soon

1. You are demoted or receive a cut in pay. This is a clear message that you’re not as valuable to the company as you’d like to be. Your boss could be hoping that you’ll quit so that he doesn’t have to do the dirty work of firing you.
2. You get a reprimand in writing. It’s not a good sign if your boss is keeping a paper trail. She may be laying the groundwork for an easy firing later.
3. You are left out of meetings. You aren’t in the loop anymore. Maybe you aren’t working on the most interesting thing right now. These are all signs that you’re considered unimportant – and expendable.
4. People start avoiding you. They might see the writing on the wall before you do. People don’t want to be associated with someone who’s on the outs with the boss.

In all these cases, the best thing to do is to talk to your boss directly about your concerns. Ask how you can improve your performance, and make a commitment to improve. Let the higher-ups know that you’re willing to do what it takes to keep your job.

If You Are Fired

Unfortunately, your boss has the right to essentially fire you for no reason. If you are called to the carpet and end up getting the ax, keep your best interest in mind and navigate the legal issues that come with being fired:

1. Don’t sign anything right away. They might want you to sign something that means you give up your right to sue them, and you don’t want to waive any rights before you know. If you were fired unjustly and want to file suit, talk to a lawyer first.
2. Check the status of your benefits. Your health coverage and other benefits will run out soon – find out when and take appropriate steps. Learn about COBRA for continued medical coverage, or get temporary health insurance to cover the gap in between jobs.
3. You can file for unemployment if you’re eligible. (If you were fired for misconduct, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to collect unemployment.)
4. You are not required to tell potential employers you were fired. Keep this in mind on the job hunt, and keep it off your resume and cover letter. But if you’re asked directly, tell the truth. Say what happened clearly, and keep it brief.

Being Fired Is Not the End of the World

Give yourself some time to recover. Figure out your next steps. This is a good chance to stop, take stock, and see where you want to go from here in your career. Make a plan and start working on it. You’ll find a new position that’s right for you, and hopefully, you will have learned something as well.