Getting fired from a job can be an emotionally trying time, especially when it feels unexpected or unjust. An unjust firing is what is commonly referred to as being wrongfully terminated. It’s when someone loses their job for reasons that aren’t quite right.
Sometimes it’s because of office issues or problems with a boss or, it could be something more serious like being treated unfairly because of who you are. It’s important to understand that every job termination situation is individual but when it comes to being fired unjustly, there are steps to take. In this article, we will go over several steps to take when you’ve been wrongfully terminated.
1 – First things first
Though it’s natural to feel upset, the moment you’ve received termination you should try to stay calm. Reacting impulsively or with anger can make the situation worse. Remember that keeping a level head will better serve you in understanding and handling the situation.
Politely requesting a written reason for your termination is the first step to take once you’ve realized you’ve been fired. It not only helps you understand the cause but also serves as a critical piece of evidence if you decide to explore any legal channels later.
If the manager or HR department doesn’t give you any reason for the termination, you will need to escalate things. You should talk to your local labor department or to an employment attorney.
2 – Document everything
It’s a good practice to always keep records of everything even when you don’t think you’ll ever be fired unjustly. In fact, this is exactly the reason to keep track of all of your records. When dealing with job termination, especially one that feels unjust, having solid records can make all the difference.
You should mainly have some records of all of your interactions with management. This includes meetings, casual conversations, or any feedback they’ve provided. If there were any incidents or situations leading up to your termination, those should be detailed as well. Even if something seems minor or irrelevant at the time, it might prove essential in understanding the bigger picture.
Some of the most important records to keep are your performance reviews. When you have nothing but good performance reviews then it is going to be difficult for your boss to justify your termination.
3 – Talk to your colleagues
It’s important to reach out to coworkers who could have witnessed specific incidents that might have led to your termination. They should be able to corroborate what you are thinking about the reason you were terminated. It could be possible that they see things differently than you, however.
Make sure to reach out in a discreet and professional manner. Not everyone may feel comfortable discussing the issue or might be concerned about potential repercussions to their own job. This is where the importance of discretion comes in. It’s always wise to ensure any conversation remains confidential, respecting their choice to share or remain silent.
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