What to Do When You’re About To Be Fired: A Step-By-Step Action Plan

That sinking feeling in your stomach. The awkward silences. The sudden closed-door meetings and decisions. If you’re experiencing these signs, you might be wondering if your job is at risk. First things first: take a deep breath. You don’t know for sure that you’re about to be fired. While the prospect of losing your job is undoubtedly stressful, you’re not powerless. This guide will walk you through what you can do to prepare yourself and potentially even turn things around.

Note: If you are actually fired, we recommend reading our Complete step-by-step survival guide after job loss.

Immediate action items if you think you’re about to be fired

When you first suspect your job might be in jeopardy, it’s crucial to act quickly but thoughtfully. These initial steps can help you gain clarity and start preparing for any outcome.

1. Assess the Situation

Before you panic, it’s essential to objectively evaluate whether you’re actually at risk of being fired. Sometimes, our anxieties can make us misinterpret situations. It’s important to think critically and look for concrete signs such as:

• A sudden decrease in your workload or responsibilities.
• Being left out of important meetings or decisions you’d normally be part of.
• Increased criticism or negative feedback from your superiors.
• A noticeable change in how your boss or colleagues interact with you.
• Your access to certain systems or information being restricted.

While these signs can be concerning, they don’t always mean termination is imminent. Sometimes, they could indicate a reorganization or a misunderstanding that can be addressed. If you’re experiencing multiple red flags, however, it’s prudent to start preparing for the possibility of job loss.

2. Review Your Employment Contract

Your employment contract is a crucial document in this situation. Pull it out, along with any employee handbooks or policy documents you have. Pay close attention to sections dealing with:

• The termination process: Understanding how terminations are typically handled in your company can help you anticipate what might happen.
• Severance packages: Know what you’re entitled to if you are let go. This can be valuable information for negotiations later.
• Unused PTO Time: Discover how much unused PTO time you have and the company policy for paying out PTO time.
• Non-compete clauses: These could affect your ability to find work in the same industry if you’re terminated.
• Ownership of work or intellectual property: Understand what you can and can’t take with you if you leave.

Understanding your rights and obligations can help you navigate the situation more effectively and avoid potential legal pitfalls.

3. Secure Your Personal Information

Much of our personal and professional lives are intertwined on our work devices. Start backing up any personal files, emails, or contacts from your work computer. Be careful not to violate any company policies or take proprietary information. This is about preserving your personal data and professional network, not about taking company property.

Consider:

• Exporting your contacts to a personal device.
• Saving copies of performance reviews or other documentation of your achievements.
• Backing up any personal photos or documents.

Once you’re terminated, you will lose access to your work accounts quickly if not immediately, so don’t delay this step.

4. Begin Documenting Everything

Start keeping a detailed record of your work achievements, projects, and any positive feedback you’ve received. This serves two purposes:

1. If you end up in a termination meeting, you have evidence of your contributions to discuss.
2. You need these accomplishments (and quantifiable wins) in order to add these items to your resume.
3. It helps build your confidence and reminds you of your value as an employee.

Also, document any concerning interactions or incidents that might be used against you. Note down dates, times, people involved, and what was said or done. This is invaluable if you need to contest an unfair dismissal.

5. Start Immediate Financial Preparations

The possibility of losing your income is one of the most stressful aspects of potential job loss. Taking immediate action to shore up your finances can help you feel more in control and prepared. Consider:

• Make or Review your budget in detail: Look at every expense and identify areas where you can cut back immediately.
• Understand your safety net: If you lost your income, how long can you sustain yourself with your current savings?
• Evaluate your subscriptions: Do you really need all those streaming services, magazine subscriptions, or that gym membership you rarely use? Cancel non-essentials.
• Change your eating habits: Start cooking at home more often instead of eating out or ordering in. This can lead to significant savings.
• Postpone major purchases: Now is not the time to buy a new car or book an expensive vacation.
• Look for quick ways to get cash: Can you sell items you no longer need? Take on some freelance work? Turn your spare time into a side hustle?

The goal here is to start living as if you’ve already lost your income. This can help you build up excess savings quickly and reduce your stress about financial matters.

6. Update Your Resume

Even if you’re not sure you’ll be fired, it’s wise to have an updated resume ready. This can also remind you of your professional value and boost your confidence for what could happen soon.

When updating your resume:

• Highlight your recent accomplishments and new skills you’ve developed.
• Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 15%” rather than just “Increased sales”).
• Tailor it to your industry’s current trends and demands.
• Consider having a trusted friend or a professional resume writer review it.
• It’s good practice to consider any skill gaps you may have in your resume.
• Is there any skill you should learn right now that would be helpful if you had to start applying?

Short-term action items (within one week) if you think you’re going to be fired

Once you’ve taken care of the immediate necessities, it’s time to start thinking about how to position yourself for success. Whether you stay in your current job or need to look for a new one.

7. Improve Your Performance

If you believe your job is at risk, taking immediate action to improve can potentially turn the situation around. Here’s how:

• Ask for specific feedback from your manager: Don’t be afraid to have an honest conversation about your performance. Ask for concrete examples of where you’re falling short and what you can do to improve.
• Create an improvement plan: Based on the feedback, develop a clear plan to address any issues. Share this plan with your boss to demonstrate your commitment to improvement.
• Go above and beyond in your current tasks: Now is the time to shine. Meet deadlines, exceed expectations, and show your value to the team.
• Volunteer for new projects or responsibilities: This shows initiative and can make you more valuable to the company.

It may not be too late to turn things around. Many employees have successfully improved their standing even when they thought their job was on the line.

8. Start Networking Discreetly

Your professional network can be a lifeline if you do end up losing your job. Start reconnecting with your network, but do so discreetly to avoid raising suspicions at your current workplace. Consider:

• Update your LinkedIn profile: Ensure it’s current and reflects your best professional self. But be careful about sudden, drastic changes that might alert your current employer.
• Reach out to former colleagues: A simple “checking in” message can reopen communication without being obvious about your situation.
• Looking for industry events or webinars to attend: Networking events can be great opportunities to meet new people in your field and learn about potential opportunities.
• Joining professional organizations in your field: These often have job boards and networking opportunities for members.

Be cautious about discussing your current situation openly. Focus on nurturing these relationships. They could be invaluable if you need to job hunt.

9. Begin a Discreet Job Search

While you’re still employed is the best time to look for a new job. It’s crucial to be discreet to avoid jeopardizing your current position. Here’s how to go about it:

• Looking at job postings in your field: What’s available and what skills are in demand. Add any missing in-demand skills to your skill roadmap and start learning them.
• Reaching out to recruitment agencies: Many specialize in discreet job searches for currently employed professionals. Studies have found up to 80% of roles are never published. So reaching out to some recruitment agencies can be a great way to access this hidden job market.
• Prepare your references: Reach out to potential references (outside your current company). Ensure they’re willing to speak positively on your behalf. If you trust them you could also mention that you are considering other opportunities. They know your skill set and might know of openings that match your skills.

The goal here is to be prepared, not necessarily to jump ship immediately. A new job might give you more leverage in your current position (especially if they plan to demote you instead). It can also provide a soft landing if you are terminated.

10. Research Unemployment Benefits

Understand the unemployment benefits available in your area can help you gain a peace of mind. Look into the eligibility requirements as these vary by location and situation. Also look into the benefit amount and duration as this can help you plan your budget.

Again, the goal is to be prepared for all possibilities.

Medium-term action items (within two weeks) if you think you’re going to be fired

As you settle into the possibility of a job transition, these steps can help you gain more control over your situation and prepare for various outcomes.

11. Consider a Proactive Conversation

If you have a good relationship with your manager, consider having an open conversation about your concerns. This can be a delicate situation, so approach it carefully based on your personal relationship with your boss. Depending on how many other opportunities you have elsewhere, you can be more or less direct. Some options to consider include:

• Request a private meeting with your manager.
• Express your commitment to your role and the company.
• Share your concerns honestly without being accusatory.
• Ask for feedback on your performance and how you can improve.
• If appropriate, discuss your long-term prospects with the company.

This conversation can provide clarity and potentially open a path to improving the situation. Even if termination is inevitable, being proactive can leave a positive final impression. Leaving on reasonable terms could help with getting professional references or even potential rehiring in the future.

12. Consult an Employment Lawyer

Consulting an employment lawyer can be a wise move. This is especially true if you suspect a potential unfair, or discriminatory termination or if you’re unsure about your rights. Many employment lawyers offer free initial consultations. An employment lawyer can advise you on:

• Your rights as an employee under local and national laws.
• How to protect yourself legally in the lead-up to potential termination.
• What to do if you’re offered a severance package.
• How to negotiate better terms if you are terminated.
• Whether you have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit if you are fired.

Knowledge is power. Understand your legal rights to help you navigate this situation more confidently.

13. Expand Your Financial Preparations

Building on the immediate financial steps you’ve already taken, look at your longer-term financial health:

• Build up your emergency fund if possible: Aim for 6 months of living expenses.
• Research health insurance options: Understand COBRA or other alternatives in case you lose your current coverage.
• Look into any debts you have: Consider contacting creditors about potential hardship options or consolidation.
• Consider meeting with a financial advisor: They can help you create a comprehensive financial plan for various scenarios.

These steps can help you feel more secure and prepared, regardless of what happens with your job.

What can I do continually to protect myself from getting fired or laid off?

Regardless of the immediate outcome, these ongoing actions can help you maintain your professional edge and mental well being.

14. Continue Documenting Everything

Keep a detailed record of your work achievements, feedback, and any concerning incidents. This ongoing documentation can be valuable whether you stay in your current job or need to find a new one.

15. Stay Informed About Your Rights

Continue to educate yourself about employment laws in your area. Understand what constitutes wrongful termination and what rights you have as an employee. Ensure you don’t do anything which would give your employer any reason to terminate your employment.

16. Network Consistently

Keep nurturing your professional relationships. Attend industry events, participate in online forums, and stay active on professional social media platforms. A strong network can provide support, insights, and opportunities throughout your career.

17. Develop New Skills

Continuous learning can make you more valuable in your current role or more marketable if you need to job hunt. Consider:

• Develop your 5-year Career Plan: Potential transitions give you a chance to reflect on where you want to take your career.
• Identify any skill gaps you have: What new skills do you need in order to get the jobs you identified?
• Plan out a skill roadmap: Prioritize and create an action plan for learning these new skills.
• Take online courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udemy offer many free or low-cost options.
• Attending webinars in your field: These can provide up-to-date industry knowledge.
• Work on side projects: These can help you develop new skills and potentially even turn into a new career path.
• Obtain relevant certifications: These can boost your resume and demonstrate your expertise.
• Develop your soft skills: Soft skills are not easily replicated by AI, potentially making them more valuable to job seekers.

Investing in your skills not only makes you more employable but can also boost your confidence during this uncertain time.

18. Take Care of Your Mental Health

The stress of potential job loss can be overwhelming. Make sure to prioritize your mental health. Some motivation tips to keep in mind for your job search:

• Maintain a healthy routine: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep habits can significantly impact your mood and stress.
• Reach out for support: Don’t isolate yourself. Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about what you’re going through.
• Practice stress-reduction techniques: Try prayer, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety.
• Maintain perspective: Your job doesn’t define your worth as a person. This situation is challenging, but this too shall pass.

Consider seeking professional help if you need it. Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs that provide free, confidential counseling.

Conclusion

Facing potential job loss is undoubtedly one of the most stressful experiences in one’s professional life. By taking proactive steps to assess your situation and prepare professionally and financially you can navigate this challenging period.

Even if the worst happens and you do lose your job, it’s not the end of your career. Many people bounce back from job loss to find even better opportunities. This could be the push to find a better role or start that freelance business you’ve always dreamed about.

Stay positive, focus on your strengths, and keep moving forward. Your skills, experience, and resilience are valuable assets that will serve you well, whatever the future holds.

Best of luck, you got this!