Why I Was Fired
After five years on the job, I was terminated from my position. It was unjust and just plain wrong. I was a scapegoat for bad, ill-stated human resources policy. I am a by-the-book person and if policy clearly states what to do in a particular situation, then I would have followed through without question. Even with a poorly written HR policy, your employer can broadly interpret (or make up) policy, assign blame without evidence, and fire you immediately while hiding behind the employment-at-will laws.
What Being Fired Has Been Like
It has been a couple of days, but I feel better despite not having a job at present. I realize this situation was not my fault but I was still collateral damage for something that was the company's fault. They told me I was fired at 4:15 in the afternoon and I barely had time to pack my belongings and say goodbye to the remaining co-workers in the office. It was emotional and incredibly difficult especially since my job allowed me to work with many different departments. While I miss the people, I will not miss the environment. Looking back, I see the environment was toxic and unnecessarily stressful. I have already begun to submit resumes and refuse to allow this situation to define who I am and what type of employee I am - which is a pretty good one.
Advice
- Even after the firing, be gracious - be BIGGER than them.
- Don't dwell on the would've, could've and should've-this is negative thinking - try to be positive and put that energy into a job search.
- Tweak your resume and start a job search immediately - helps keep you productive; also reminds you how qualified you are and the good things you have to offer any employer.
- If you feel you have been wrongfully terminated, consult an attorney if you can - you never know if your situation has legal recourse until you ask.
- First impressions count - if your manager stinks, that will not change - Watch your back!
