On getting fired!

Had a call from a friend of mine from Wisconsin. She just got canned. We had an hour long discussion and it prompted me to write this entry.

Some points for those that have been, are about to, or fear that they are about to get fired :

• It can happen to anyone, from CEO to the “lowest” level in the hierarchy. As long as you’re an employee, its part of the game. I know this friend that got fired from his manager, sweated it out for ’bout 6 months, landed a job on a new company (startup ) and ended up interviewing the guy that fired him (who was himself fired a couple of months later).
• Doesn’t matter what qualifications you have, or what position you’re in right now, or may be in the future; it can happen. Reasons may not be that rational or logical, depending on what sort of check and balance system exists in the firing campaign (usually not so much; left to firing manager to decide;weakness of the system if you want)
• Usually its never personal but sometimes it can be, depending on who makes the decisions and what they’re instructions, constraints, personal agendas, and motivations are, as well as what the perceived needs (present and future) of the corporation are.
• Usually comes from top management and left to upper and middle management to decide ; depending on how severe the cutbacks and reasons for downsizing (or whatever) can include management layers; usually has to do with mistakes in strategy or overall shift in market circumstance but there may be many other reasons.

Some things to consider while working:

1. Make friends and network yourself; it may be a good idea to form a group of people and meet occasionally; the less isolated you are the more carefree in times of need. This includes collegues as well as other industry (or industries) professionals. Be involved in other activities outside your particular company, and take initiatives into organising,participating, and promoting such activities…its a good way to get yourself known..this also includes writing and being interviewed. Always be professional and never breach corporate (or anyone’s for that matter) confidence; credibility is an important asset in life.
2. Make a habit of not getting into debt, and learn to save. If you’re lucky enough to be earning a considerable amount because you’re in a growth industry, invest a good portion into something that generates additional income that way your income source is distributed; saved income or other income will give you time to search for new opportunities without being pressed by financial/debt deadlines!!!
3. Try to see the big picture so that you can understand where things are going. It’ll provide an early warning towards possible problems and situations.Also, you may develop an understanding of what competences are required and what are not (this may or may not make a difference in your particular company, but will in the industry or emerging industries)
4. There’s a saying that the minute you land a job, its time to start looking for a new one…its a wise saying and don’t forget that the new job may also be your own line of business;again networking is imperative.
5. Always be aware of what your legal rights and obligations are. It may be prudent to talk to a lawyer just so that you are aware of legal framework that you’re working in.

If you do get canned and haven’t yet landed a new job (that is if you’re interested in working for someone else again):

1. Take some time off and assess your situation including your financial status, future aspirations; use your experience as a lessons learnt.
2. Don’t take it personally even if its personal. Make the most of it but know your rights (including what wrongful dismissal means) including if you’re eligible for some sort of compensation etc…Keep good faith and leave (if it is at all possible) on a friendly note..who knows, your present (or past) company may be your client tomorrow. Generally in life you need friends, and don’t need enemies. Revenge is always a waste of time. Disregard and shrug off any offending people or remarks, as long as its not a breach of your individual/professional legal rights as defined by legislation in the area that you live!!!
3. Take advantage of your free time and use your contacts…Most importantly, don’t allow your circumstances to isolate you…ISOLATION IS A CURSE…AVOID IT AT ALL COSTS and use the necessary tools (phone, internet, cafes etc..) to minimize this time (aside from the time that you need to reflect..time that is indeed sacred and valuable)
4. Always remember that getting canned does not reflect your self value; it is indeed a grave mistake for an individual to identify himself with his/her employer. For example, if you’re use to saying “I’m john john who works for companyA, or I’m companA’s john john” change it!!!!
5. Finally be optimistic, explore new domains (including own business), learn from the past, don’t rush into anything and take it step by step where each step is well thought out.

Remember, again this can happen to anyone so don’t let it drag you down….MANAGE IT!!!