Steve Jobs once said, “Sometimes life is going to hit you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith.” Getting fired from a job is like being hit in the head with a brick. It hurts. Sometimes it’s unexpected and other times it feels inevitable, but no matter what, it is a hard thing to walk through.
There are many ways you can respond to being fired, but here are the top 10 best next steps after you’ve been fired:
1. Ask for Feedback
Initiate a conversation with your employer and request feedback. Determine why they decided to let you go. Did you do something you should avoid in the future? Did you fail to meet an expectation? Do you struggle with aspects of your work that didn’t improve?
Experiencing a firing can be awful and painful, but it doesn’t have to destroy you. Make sure to request feedback. If your meeting already occurred and you didn’t receive this feedback, don’t hesitate to contact your employer!
2. File for Unemployment
Research to see if you qualify for unemployment and file immediately. This action can help ease some of the financial stress of being between jobs. You can start receiving unemployment benefits while you plan your next steps.
Some people may feel embarrassed to accept unemployment, but don’t. You need this support while you regain your footing. Unemployment benefits aren’t a permanent solution, but they can offer some assistance as you navigate your next phase of life.
3. Take a Moment for Self-Reflection
Ask yourself, “Did I see this coming? Do I feel like I deserved to be fired? What could I have done better, if anything? How can I extract lessons from this experience?”
Getting fired can feel like rejection. It’s as if someone else is telling you that your contributions are inadequate, and they no longer wish to work with you. This experience can be extraordinarily challenging, but it can also teach you a great deal.
Consider your work ethic and performance. Do you feel satisfied with the effort you put in? Is there something you can improve for your next role?
4. Allow Yourself to Grieve
If your employer fired you unexpectedly, expect to experience a period of grief. Regardless of your feelings about the job, losing it can cause emotional pain. Allow yourself the necessary time and space to fully grieve the loss. If you loved your job, the process might be harder and take longer. If you didn’t enjoy the position, you might find the grieving process easier. Nevertheless, grieving remains an integral part of the process.
5. Reach Out to Your Networks
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your networks and friends! Ask them if they’re hiring or know of any available positions you’d be a good fit for. Don’t be shy. There is nothing wrong with asking others! For many, the job market is all about who you know, so you must tap into your network and friend group to help you find a new job.
Note: This is a humbling experience. It can be embarrassing and humbling to admit you’ve been fired and need help. Don’t be too proud. Ask for help and allow others to assist you in any way they’re able. Remember, you build those networks and friendships. Now it’s time to lean on them.
6. Update Your Resume
Perhaps it hasn’t been long since you last updated your resume or it may be been years. No matter how much work is needed, take the time to update your resume. Make sure that each previous job you’ve had is well represented and your skills are highlighted. If you have a friend who can help, have them proof it for you and provide you with feedback. The more time and effort you put into your resume, the more you will get out of it!
7. Start Applying for New Positions
You may not feel ready to apply for new positions right away but don’t allow too much time to pass before you do. New employers will appreciate your hasty effort to get back out there and work hard. Also, you can help your confidence by putting yourself out there quickly.
Consider what you liked and disliked about your last job when looking for new positions. Do you want to do something similar or is it time for a completely different direction? Is there a career path you’ve always wanted, but couldn’t achieve? Maybe you can now. Use the opportunity to explore all options and opportunities and avoid locking yourself into any one thing.
8. Spend Time Working on Yourself
Take the feedback you were given when you were let go and apply it. Take the time to reflect and weigh their input and apply anything necessary to how you work and how you live. Don’t isolate yourself, but spend time with others who can help you along the way.
If there are skills you need to work on, take the time to learn. There are many free courses and videos available online to help with your professional development.
If you need character work, put in the effort. You can grow and get better through every experience if you take the time and do the work.
9. Practice Your Interviewing Skills
The job market is constantly evolving and interviewing techniques are too. Develop and practice your interview skills again. Ask a family member or friend to practice with you. Be prepared to talk about anything and everything. This may be the most important next step after you’ve been fired. Refine your skills and prepare for what’s next. There are many resources like this one for you to read and put into practice.
Don’t rely on past interview skills, but develop new ones and refine the existing skills. As the job market evolves, it becomes more competitive, so you want to make sure to stick out!
10. Think About How You’ll Talk About Your Termination
In any interview, you must value honesty. Therefore, you should also be honest about your termination. Consider how you’ll discuss that experience. Honor your past job, and acknowledge any mistakes you made in your previous role. Honesty and transparency will eliminate the stigma from the moment and will increase your chances of getting the job!
Recall, a job termination doesn’t mark the end of your professional life. It could be just the beginning! You cannot predict the opportunities or even careers that might become available to you in this fresh phase of life.
Although a firing is never comfortable, it can yield immense good if you let it push you. Don’t live bitter, become better. As you strive to find a new role, remember what you liked and disliked about your past job. This way, you can avoid potential red flags or toxic environments and find the best new job that fits you, your needs, and your abilities!
