Help! I’ve Just Been Fired

You’ve just been hit with that gut-wrenching news: you’ve been fired. First, take a deep breath. It’s going to be okay. Your mind may be going haywire. This may feel like the worst thing that’s ever happened to you. And there’s no sugarcoating it; getting fired is awful. But guess what? It could be the start of something even better. So, let’s talk about what to do next.

Step 1: Feel your Emotions

It’s natural to feel a whole bunch of emotions right now – anger, shame, frustration, maybe even relief if you weren’t enjoying the job anyway. Whatever you’re feeling, let it out. Talk to people you trust: family, friends, your therapist, even your pet! We know you probably want to rush to the part of this process where you get a new job. But you need to take care of your mental health too, especially because a clear mind will help you with the next steps.

Step 2: Assess the Situation

Now that you’ve had a chance to vent, it’s time to take a hard look at the situation. Consider your finances. Do you need to review your budget until you’re earning money again? Or maybe you have an emergency fund to help you out. Even though it’s painful, you should also think about why you were fired. Was it something you did (or didn’t do), or was it out of your control? Be honest with yourself. Understanding the reasons behind your termination can help you avoid making the same mistakes in the future.

Step 3: Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

It’s time to make your resume shine. Highlight your skills, education, accomplishments, and experiences – even the ones from your previous job. Remember to keep your resume simple, professional, and readable; complicated or over-formatted resumes can be a major turn-off for employers! Don’t forget to spruce up your LinkedIn profile too; recruiters often scout for talent on there.

Step 4: Start Job Hunting

Alright, it’s time to get back out there. Visit job search websites and the websites of companies in your industry. Reach out to recruitment agencies too. Remember, finding a job is a numbers game. The more applications you send out, the better your chances of landing interviews.

Step 5: Activate your Network

Not all jobs are advertised – the hidden job market refers to jobs that are often filled by recommendations. Even if you’ve been fired, you may have good relationships with people in your former company or in your industry. Why not ask them to meet you for a cup of coffee? You can let them know you’re looking for a new opportunity and this could lead to a recommendation. They may also have valuable advice on where to look for jobs and how to make your resume stand out.

Step 6: Prepare for the Interview

If an employer requests an interview, it’s time to prepare. Start by researching the company. Understanding what they do, their values, and their culture will help you tailor your responses to their questions. Review the job description, paying special attention to the responsibilities and requirements; think about what you could bring to the role that would set you apart from others. You can even ask someone you trust to conduct a practice interview. There are some questions that always come up, like: “Can you tell me about yourself?” and “What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?” You can also ask the practice interviewer to give you feedback, to help you improve before the real thing.

Step 7: Take Care of Yourself

Job hunting can be stressful, especially when you’re dealing with the aftermath of being fired. If you’re not getting new opportunities right away, it can be tempting to spiral into negativity. But your worth as a person isn’t tied to your job. We know it’s easier said than done, but make sure you remember how special and valuable you are. Take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Something good may not happen for you right away, but if you keep at it there will be better and brighter days ahead. We believe in you.