Do Business Well

One of the most traumatic experiences for any worker is to get dismissed. No matter how gently the news might be given, losing one’s job is still a major loss experience. If your work has not been satisfactory and you have had at least one warning meeting with your boss, then the dismissal message might not be a surprise. However, the news is seldom cheerfully received.

The immediate emotional response to being dismissed might be any of the following: anger; numbness; denial; or perhaps even apathy. Whatever your response, you will want to summon your practical senses. If for no other reason, it can be a beneficial learning experience to understand exactly why your work was not considered to be satisfactory. Ask for specific details. Was it the quality of my work? Or was it the quantity of work produced? Was it a personality aspect which caused the problem? These can be difficult questions to ask, but it is very important to know the answers.

While discussing details with your ex-boss, you can actually be in an advantageous bargaining position. There are two issues you might wish to raise. One, bargain strongly for as much severance pay as you can get. Your boss is probably feeling just as uncomfortable as you, so you can be in a strong bargaining position. In higher management circles, you may be able to argue for job relocation expenses—the employer pays fees to a management consultant to assist you in finding another position. The second matter which should be raised is a letter of reference. Be certain to discuss the terms with which your dismissal will be described.

After you have recovered from the shock of being dismissed from your job, what do you do? As you might be feeling depressed and despondent, it is important to get started on building some new possibilities for yourself. After all, getting dismissed from a job can be viewed as a positive opportunity to pursue a new career. Here are some suggestions to make those difficult days a bit more positive and productive.

• Definitely work to a daily plan and keep your days structured.
• Get out and get going early each day so that you don’t sit at home feeling sorry for yourself.

• Tell a friend what you will be doing each day and report your progress. Knowing that someone else is very interested in how you are faring can make you press ahead more diligently.
• Try to get some vigorous exercise at least three to five times per week to blow off pent up emotional steam.
• Contact old friends and acquaintances who might have useful leads about new job possibilities.

• Resist the temptation to hide yourself or your situation from friends and relatives. Even the most successful people have had some employment setbacks.
• List your positive features and qualities on paper so that you don’t lose sight of your strengths.

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