How to Leave your Job with Dignity after being Fired
You might have heard a couple of weeks ago about the tragedy that happened at the beer manufacturing plant in Connecticut after one of its employees was fired. This is by no means leaving your job with dignity, and is an extreme example of how disgruntled workers can cause havoc when they are fired. The behavior was inexcusable, and you still have a responsibility to leave with dignity intact when you are fired.
When you are fired, you should be ready to accept what this means. Despite your best efforts, you are no longer needed by the company. There will be an initial shock of course, but you should accept that this isn't all bad. As a professional, you should be willing to leave the building as soon as the meeting is finished. You will gain nothing by acting out.
The best time to be upset and lash out is when you are at home and in the privacy of wherever you live. Listen to some angry music, drink a beer or go out with your friends. Much like getting dumped in a relationship, you should take some time to analyze what happened, but realize that there are going to be future opportunities out there for you.
When you are fired, you should take the time to thank the company for the opportunity to work for them. This might seem a little odd, but you might get another chance to work for the company should you gain new skills or adjust your attitude according to the needs of your employer. If you leave as a professional, you increase your chances of maintaining any good contacts you still have at the company.
The only real requests you might have are to show evidence of what you are being accused of and/or your last paycheck. If a company cannot document what they are accusing you of, you have recourse in the legal system. By staying calm and not lashing out, you are going to have a better time proving that you were fired without cause and perhaps get your job back should you want it still.
Stay calm and realize that being fired isn't the end of the world. Everyone gets fired from time to time and while it can be embarrassing at first, it certainly opens up new doors for you. Just be a professional and keep your head up high when you leave. It is all you can really do at that point.
