No one ever expects to be terminated from their job, especially when it’s done unfairly. It can feel like a gaping hole of uncertainty and worry has been blown through your life – but you don’t need to stay stuck in this place any longer. Getting back on your feet after an unfair termination doesn’t have to take forever with our 8 simple steps. Let’s get started with these must-take steps to bounce back after being unfairly terminated!
Allow Yourself Time to Process
While it may seem counterintuitive, the first step toward recovery after an unfair termination is to give yourself time to process what has happened. Losing a job, especially abruptly and unjustly, is a significant event, almost akin to experiencing a personal loss.
It’s normal to feel a whirlwind of emotions: anger, disbelief, fear, and even grief. These feelings are valid and deserve recognition. Take some time, a few days or a week, to allow these emotions to surface and acknowledge them. This isn’t about wallowing in self-pity but rather about giving yourself permission to grieve the loss of your job and the disruption to your life.
Understand Wrongful Termination Laws
Once you’ve had a chance to process your emotions, it’s time to arm yourself with knowledge about wrongful termination laws. Especially if you were terminated without cause or in violation of employment laws, you may be entitled to compensation or reinstatement. As someone living in the area, understanding wrongful termination laws in New Jersey, for example, can help you determine if your termination was justified or not.
In this case, you want to consult with a reputable employment lawyer for guidance and support. Their expertise can be invaluable in navigating the legal system and advocating for your rights.
Request a Detailed Reason for Termination
Termination of employment can come as a shock, leaving you questioning what went wrong. To gain closure and move forward, you need to understand the reason for your dismissal. Don’t be afraid to request a detailed explanation from your employer, preferably in writing. This can help you identify any inconsistencies or discrepancies that may support your case for wrongful termination.
If the employer does not provide a satisfactory reason, you can consider filing a complaint with the appropriate governing body. After all, you have the right to know why you were fired, and if there is a valid reason, it should be documented.
Secure References and Recommendations
Being unfairly terminated can damage your professional reputation and make it challenging to find new employment. To mitigate this, secure references and recommendations from former colleagues or supervisors who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. These can be valuable assets when applying for new jobs and can counter any negative perceptions from your previous termination.
On top of that, having a list of references ready can also show potential employers that you are proactive and prepared, despite facing challenges in the past. Your life won’t have to come to a grinding halt because of one unfortunate event.
Update Your CV
The last thing you want to do after a job loss is to update your CV, but it’s a critical step in getting back on your feet. Take the time to review and revise your resume, highlighting any skills or accomplishments from your previous job that will make you stand out to potential employers.
Remove any outdated information and ensure your CV is concise, engaging, and tailored to the roles you’re now seeking. If your termination left a gap in your employment history, consider using a functional format that emphasizes your skills over your chronological work history. Make sure to update your LinkedIn profile and other professional networking platforms if you have them.
Network
Networking is a powerful tool in job hunting, especially after an unfair termination. Reach out to your professional connections to let them know you’re seeking new opportunities. Attend industry events, seminars, or webinars to meet new people. The more people who know you’re looking, the more chances you’ll have to hear about unadvertised roles.
Don’t underestimate the power of personal connections; sometimes they can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Keep in mind that networking is a two-way street; always be ready to help others and build meaningful relationships.
Job Hunt Strategically
It may be tempting to apply for any and every job you come across out of desperation. However, this approach can be counterproductive, leading to burnout and potentially landing you in another unsuitable or unfair work environment.
Instead, focus on finding roles that align with your skills, interests, and values. Take the time to research companies before applying, looking into their culture, values, and employee reviews. This will help you avoid being in a similar situation as your previous job and increase your chances of finding a fulfilling position.
Stay Positive
Staying positive may seem challenging after unfair termination, but it is a crucial part of bouncing back. Do not let this setback define you or make you doubt your capabilities: the termination was unfair and not a reflection of your worth or talents. Keep this perspective in mind as you move forward.
Engage in activities that uplift your mood and boost your confidence, such as exercise, volunteering, or learning a new skill. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you and help maintain a positive outlook. Don’t be discouraged by rejections during your job hunt; view them as stepping stones toward the right opportunity. Maintaining positivity will help you present yourself confidently to potential employers and can make a significant difference in your job search.
Rebounding from an unjust termination can be a challenging journey, but with the right steps, it’s more than possible. Allow yourself to process, understand your rights, secure references, update your CV, network, job hunt strategically, and stay positive.
Bear in mind that an unfair dismissal doesn’t define you or your capabilities. Stay resilient, keep moving forward, and you’ll find an opportunity that appreciates your skills and values your contribution. You got this!
