How to Tell You're About to Get Fired — Plus 4 'Typical' Reasons for It, From a Career Expert Emily Levine, executive vice president of recruitment and advisory firm Career Group Companies, breaks down what you need to know.
By Amanda Breen Edited by Jessica Thomas
Key Takeaways
- The majority of Americans fear losing their job more than they do sickness or poor health.
- Proactive measures can mitigate the risk of termination and provide a roadmap for recovery if let go.
Sixty-five percent of Americans fear losing their job more than they fear sickness or poor health, according to a 2023 report from online resume builder Zety.
Of course, there's an important distinction between being fired and getting laid off. The latter might have more to do with a company's bottom line than an individual's performance, but the former tends to be closely linked to conduct on the job.
Although there are many reasons someone might be asked to clear out their desk or log off company channels for good, some of the most common fireable offenses fall under one of four umbrellas, Emily Levine, executive vice president of recruitment and advisory firm Career Group Companies, tells Entrepreneur.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Career Group Companies. Emily Levine.
"Typically, terminations result from a lapse in judgment, an instance of dishonesty, a breach of trust or simply subpar performance," Levine says. That might mean anything from attendance issues to substance abuse, insubordination, inappropriate behavior and dress and more.
Related: 5 Things to Do When an Employee's Performance Deteriorates
What's more, it's unlikely that you'll be fired out of the blue. There are warning signs when someone's professional days are numbered, according to Levine — and they might come in several different forms.
First, pay attention to a shift in the work you're delegated or your knowledge about future project plans. "If you're suddenly excluded from key meetings or your IT access is cut, odds are that something is happening behind the scenes," Levine says.
Additionally, take note if your manager's attitude towards you changes significantly or if you experience a sudden increase in supervision, according to Levine.
But perhaps the most glaring red flags? That would be any consistent negative feedback or formal warnings. "That is a clear indication they are at risk of losing their job," Levine warns.
Related: Some Workers Actually Want to Get Fired, According to a New Report — Here's Why
The good news is that you might not be completely powerless if you sense your job is at risk.
Levine suggests initiating a conversation with your HR department or direct supervisor "to gauge the actual situation" and show your commitment to addressing concerns. "This can sometimes turn the tide in your favor," Levine explains. "You can prepare for that conversation by documenting your work and accomplishments and getting ready to prove your value."
However, if the worst-case scenario does come to pass, Levine has some tips for those seeking their next opportunity: File for unemployment so you can focus on your job search, compile a list of professional references who can speak to your accomplishments, refresh your resume, update your LinkedIn profile and consider working with a recruitment firm that specializes in your industry or line of work.
Related: What It's Really Like to Get Fired
"Use this transition period to upskill and reskill and maintain a positive mindset and professionalism in all interactions," Levine says. "Being let go is incredibly difficult, so make sure you take the necessary time to reflect on your career goals and focus your energy into forming a strategic plan for your future."
