10 Things Not To Do If You Lose Your Job

By Mark Swartz
Monster Contributing Writer

“I’m sorry,” says your manager, trying hard not to look you in the eye. The two of you are seated in her office. “Your services here are no longer required,” she continues. On the desk in front of her is a large envelope with your name on it. “This decision is final and effective immediately.”

Downsized. Out of a job. Your stomach wrenches like a rollercoaster. Me? Unemployed? What do I do now?

There’s a host of things you’ll need to get done in the next few weeks to start managing your transition. But for now, here is what not to do once you get the news that you’re terminated.

1. Don’t make a scene when you leave the employer’s premises

Difficult as it may seem to keep calm, now is not the time to fall apart. Assemble your belongings peacefully. Leave the building quickly. You’re going to need a reference, so shrieking at your boss for firing you is a bad idea.

2. Don’t sign or agree to anything on your way out

That envelope on your boss’s desk? It holds your severance package. Take it with you and read it carefully. Get it checked by an employment lawyer if you have questions. Once you sign and hand it back, it’s legally binding. For more legal tips on dealing with getting downsized, click here, and here too.

3. Don’t pretend that everything is OK

From shock to relief to anger, fear, and optimism…or back again. You’re likely to feel a heightened variety of emotions. This is natural. The intensity of these sensations should subside as you take care of details and begin your transition.

4. Don’t shut out the people you care about most

Let your partner, spouse, family or friends know what’s happened. There is no shame in being let go from an employer these days. And the people who care about you will understand. They can provide essential support for you during this trying period.

5. Don’t call your business contacts or recruiters yet

The temptation to get back to work right away can be very strong. However, you always want to approach your contacts in your best light. It is far better to wait until your emotions are calmer and you’ve had a chance to strategically assess your goals, prepare your marketing approach and create a superbly targeted resume.

6. Don’t badmouth your former employer in public

Get your anger out in private. Stay away from Facebook or Twitter if you feel an urge to vent. One foul word saved online forever can haunt you in a hurry.

7. Don’t bottle up your emotions

Talk to someone you trust and confide in them, other than a spouse or family member if possible. You’re grieving the loss of your job and its familiar routine. Let them know how you’re genuinely feeling and the issues you’re struggling with. Seek out a professional if the stress is too much for you.

8. Don’t hang on to equipment or documents owned by the employer

Arrange the return of any borrowed equipment or confidential material. Smartphone, laptop, tablet, proprietary files, etc. must be returned quickly.

9. Don’t wait to apply for Employment Insurance

The process can take a number of weeks overall. You’ll need a Record of Employment from the employer, but this may take a while to arrive.

10. Don’t stick your head in the sand

There are plenty of details to start considering. What will you need in order to get through this early period? Financial advice? Make a list of all the things you believe you’ll need to deal with fast, and start moving forward instead of getting stuck.