Posted August 19, 2024

Let’s be honest—getting fired sucks. Whether you saw it coming or it blindsided you, the sting of losing your job is real. It can leave you feeling confused, embarrassed, and even panicked about what comes next. But here’s the thing: getting fired doesn’t define you. In fact, it can be the start of something better.

If you're reading this because you just got the news, take a breath. I’m here to walk you through what to do next.

Step 1: Feel Your Feelings (But Don’t Stay There)

First things first—let yourself feel whatever comes up. It’s natural to experience a mix of emotions like anger, sadness, or fear. It’s okay to take a day (or a few) to sit with it. Vent to a trusted friend, journal about it, or take a long walk—whatever helps you process the moment.

But remember, don’t let these feelings consume you. Getting fired doesn’t mean you’re not good at what you do, and it doesn’t mean your career is over. It’s just a bump in the road.

Step 2: Reflect on What Happened

Once you’ve processed the emotions, it’s time to reflect. Ask yourself, “Why did this happen?” Did you feel like this job wasn’t a good fit? Were you struggling to meet expectations? Or maybe there was a bigger issue, like company-wide layoffs. Try to identify the factors, but don’t be too hard on yourself. This isn’t about self-blame—it’s about learning. What can you take from this experience to avoid similar situations in the future? Reflection is key to moving forward stronger.

Step 3: Know Your Rights

Before you leave the building (or log off), make sure you understand the terms of your termination. Were you fired with cause or without cause? What severance, if any, are you entitled to? Are there benefits you can still access, like health insurance through COBRA? Don’t be afraid to ask HR for clarification on these points.

And if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to seek legal advice. Sometimes, wrongful termination happens, and you have rights you can exercise.

Step 4: Update Your Resume and LinkedIn

You’re going to need these tools ready when the job hunt starts again. Take some time to update your resume and LinkedIn profile, highlighting your achievements and the skills you’ve gained. If you're nervous about putting the termination on your resume, don’t be. Most times, it won’t even come up until an interview, and by then, you’ll have a solid explanation ready.

Remember: Your job does not define your entire career.

Step 5: Tap Into Your Network

Here’s the thing—people get fired all the time. It’s more common than you think, and more people have been there than you might realize. So, don’t hesitate to lean on your network. Let trusted contacts know you’re in the market for a new opportunity. Whether it’s friends, former colleagues, or professional groups, people are often more willing to help than you think.

Networking doesn’t mean begging for a job. It’s about letting people know you’re available and exploring new opportunities through your connections.

Step 6: Start Looking Ahead

Now that you’ve done the hard work of reflecting, updating, and networking, it’s time to focus on what’s next. What kind of role do you really want? Is there a different industry or position you’ve been thinking about? This might be the perfect opportunity to explore a career pivot or pursue something you’re passionate about.

And if you’re still in the same industry, think about what kind of company culture and work environment will help you thrive. The goal is to land somewhere that’s an even better fit than where you were.

Step 7: Take Care of Yourself

Job loss can take a toll on your mental health, so don’t forget to care for yourself during this time. Establish routines that give you structure, such as setting aside time each day for job hunting and personal care. This is also a great time to reconnect with hobbies or passions you might have let slip while you were working. You deserve to feel good, even in this transition.

If the stress is overwhelming, don’t be afraid to seek help—whether that’s talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or leaning on friends and family.

Final Thoughts: This Isn’t the End of Your Story

Getting fired feels like a punch in the gut, but it’s not the end of your journey—it’s just a redirection. Some of the most successful people have been fired at least once in their careers. Oprah, Steve Jobs, and J.K. Rowling all went through it, and look where they ended up.

The most important thing is to stay resilient, take what you’ve learned, and move forward with confidence. Your next opportunity might just be around the corner.

Lettice Mayfield
Senior HR Consultant
Resourceology360, LLC