by Lisa Raymond

Created on: May 07, 2011   Last Updated: December 15, 2011

What? I'm....fired? In today's day and age, those are tough words to hear, especially if you thought you were irreplaceable, and the best thing (ok... second best) to happen to that company.  If you were "all that and a box of chocolate", then why... or even better, how could they let you go?

Before we blame the company for firing, maybe that first step should be to look at ourselves for the answers to the problem(s).  As I employ a lot of people, I also let them go, 85% of the time, it's due to something they did, not the company. 

While many states have an "at will" consent meaning either they can relieve you of your duties or you can quit without reason, many times there are factors that lead to one being fired. This article will address "soft skills" and some easily correctable situations:

1. Tardiness:  This is a huge factor for many employers.  Even though you may come in 5 or 10 minutes late here or there, you're being paid to be there when you're not.  If you're 10 minutes late everyday for a week, that's almost an hour of missed work.  Time is money and making money is valuable.  Easy Fix:  Get a good nights rest, set your alarm clock at a reasonable hour and get up when it goes off. Playing with the snooze button just delays the inevitable and won't help you in the long run.

2. Telephone Usage: We all make/receive personal calls from time-to-time.  However, you should avoid personal calls unless it is an emergency. Making plans for Friday night does not count as an emergency and can wait until you get home.  Because companies are cutting costs, they are monitoring your usage of the phone. Easy Fix:  Tell people not to call you unless it is an emergency.

3. Computer Usage: We live in the age of technology.  At work, we are supplied with computers and Internet service.  A lot of people fail to realize, that when you use a computer at your work place, everything you send is kept on the companies hard drive.  Easy Fix: Remember that the computer is company property, they have the right to see what you're doing. Personal emails should be done on personal time.

4. Interactions with co-workers or boss:  We all have bad days, but do you take it out on those you work with?  Snappish remarks, attitudes and fowl language are always a no no in the work place. Doing the Dr Jeckel/Mr Hyde is not the persona you want to show at work.  Easy fix: While it's fine to have an "off day" remember not to take it out on those you work with.

These are only a few issues that can lead to dismissal from a job.  There are other factors to also consider, like work ethic, performance, etc.  The bottom line is, before blaming the employer for firing you for no reason, take a look at your behavior, how you interacted, and your soft skills.  Can some of the blame be shifted to you?

Learn more about this author, Lisa Raymond.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.