6 Tips for Finding Work After Being Fired

Things don’t always go as planned, you’ve recently been fired, but it is not the end of the world. Your new job search does not have to be as overwhelming as it seems.

Here are 6 quick tips to ensure you get back in the job market, stronger than ever.

1. Understand and Reflect

It is very important to take some time to figure out exactly what happened and what went wrong. If it was something you did, put your ego to the side and be honest with yourself by doing your best to identify your shortcomings so that you can learn from it and put your best self forward in the future.

2. Try to Stay Positive

We get it, getting fired is the worst! However, you will only make a bad situation worse if you beat yourself up about it. Try to stay positive and be sure not to bad mouth your former employer, either. There is a better job out there for you, so use your time wisely and get yourself back on the horse.

3. Work Your Network

Networking can be a challenge, even for extroverts, but it is equally important to make connections with people who could potentially get your resume in the right hands. To get started, build a contact list and communicate via email or through the professional network LinkedIn Ask for things like career advice, introductions, job leads and remember to always have copies of your resume on hand. You never who you will run into.

4. Don’t Say the “F” Word

Seriously, don’t ever say the word “FIRED” again. There are nicer words that you can use that won’t send the hiring manager to a screeching halt when spoken. Use words like “let go” or phrases like “it wasn’t the right fit.” Be honest, you’ve done your reflecting on what went wrong and what you could have done to change things. Take some time to figure out how you are going to explain your reason for termination and practice it. Keep it short and sweet to keep the interview conversation flowing.

5. Get Letters of Recommendation

Perhaps your manager or co-worker stated as you were leaving, “I would be happy to give you a good reference.” If so, follow up on that and ask them to write you one on the company’s letterhead. A positive employment reference is your golden ticket and is certainly something you will need to hang on to! Once you’ve briefly explained being let go, you can present a glowing reference from your your previous employer.

6. Seek Help from a Staffing Agency

If you’re looking for a new job, check out our Job Openings page + to see what’s available. Apex Staffing specializes in connecting talented job seekers with high-quality, local employers. Our service is completely free for job seekers and we are always accepting applications.