What to Do When You’re Fired: Coping Strategies and Practical Next Steps

Losing your job can feel like a major setback - but it’s not the end of your career. Whether you saw it coming or not, being fired is something many people experience at some point in their professional lives. What matters most is how you respond.

Here are practical and emotional strategies to help you move forward with clarity, resilience, and purpose.

1. Stay Calm and Composed

It’s completely normal to feel a wave of emotions - shock, sadness, embarrassment, or even anger. Allow yourself time to process what’s happened, but try not to react impulsively, especially if you're still in contact with your employer.

Take a few deep breaths, maintain professionalism, and remember: how you handle the moment can impact future references and your own sense of control.

2. Understand Why You Were Let Go

Seek honest feedback if possible. Was the decision performance-related, due to restructuring, or a mismatch in culture or expectations? Gaining clarity will help you:

• Understand what (if anything) you can improve
• Recognise if the role was never a good fit
• Avoid similar issues in your next opportunity

Stay reflective—not defensive. Use this as a learning opportunity.

3. Review Your Finances and Create a Plan

Losing income can be stressful. Take immediate stock of your financial situation:

• Review your savings, expenses, and debts
• Check your eligibility for severance pay or unemployment benefits
• Create a temporary budget and prioritise essential expenses

Having a clear plan gives you stability and reduces stress while you search for your next role.

4. Tap Into Your Network

Don’t underestimate the power of your professional connections. Reach out to:

• Former colleagues
• Mentors
• Friends in the industry

Let people know you’re exploring new opportunities. Referrals, job leads, and even emotional support can make a huge difference.

5. Update Your Resume and Online Profiles

This is the perfect time to refresh your professional presence:

• Update your resume with recent achievements
• Optimise your LinkedIn profile and include a strong summary
• Highlight skills and experiences that align with your goals

Tailor your resume for the roles you're targeting. Need help? Check out free resources at SMAART Candidate Coach.

6. Start Your Job Search Strategically

Begin your job hunt with intention:

• Use job boards, company websites, and recruitment agencies
• Set daily or weekly job search goals
• Customise your applications to each role

Focus on roles that truly match your skills, values, and career direction - don’t just apply for everything.

7. Upskill or Retrain if Needed

Were there skills you lacked in your previous role? Or are your desired roles asking for capabilities you don’t yet have?

• Take a short course or attend a workshop
• Learn new software or certifications
• Expand your soft skills (communication, leadership, adaptability)

Investing in your growth can boost your confidence and your employability.

8. Stay Positive and Look After Your Mental Health

Being fired can be a blow to your confidence - but it doesn’t define your worth. Focus on what’s within your control:

• Practice self-care and get regular sleep
• Exercise to help reduce stress
• Spend time with supportive people

Resilience is built in tough moments like these. Give yourself time.

9. Explore Alternative Income Streams

While searching for your next role, consider temporary ways to generate income:

• Freelance or contract work
• Part-time roles
• Consulting gigs
• Selling a skill or service online

These options can relieve financial pressure and help you stay productive.

10. Seek Professional Help if You Need It

If you're struggling emotionally or feeling stuck, consider talking to:

• A career coach
• A mental health professional
• Support groups or job search networks

You don’t have to go through this alone. Getting the right support can make this time of transition much more manageable.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Being fired doesn’t define your future - it’s a pivot point. Use this time to reflect, reset, and refocus on what truly matters to you professionally. Many people go on to find better, more fulfilling roles after a setback like this.

Stay proactive. Stay resilient. Your next opportunity is out there - and you may even find it leads you somewhere better than where you were before.