There is an underlying belief among employees that if you continue to come to work and do your best that you cannot lose your job.  Unfortunately, employment is not an entitlement. Most terminations are legal, meaning unless you are covered by a contract of employment, or you belong to a union, you are likely an “at will” employee, and can be fired for any reason so long as it’s not discriminatory.  Discriminatory reasons vary by state, but may include actions based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, active military or veteran status, disability, participation in discrimination complaint-related activities, genetics, or any other protected classifications protected by state. This would mean that the real basis of your termination was not the reason given to you, but was because you are a member of one of these legally protected categories. Unless your employment is not “at will” or your termination falls within a discriminatory act, it is possible that your employer acted lawfully.

The nature and method of your separation will vary on a number of factors, which include but are not limited to: the size of the Company, the number of employees, your position held and your tenure with the Company. Some employees are let go and shown the door within minutes.  Others are allowed to stay for a specified duration, and are given a wind down period.  There is no standard or right way to how a termination occurs.  The key to a successful termination is knowing how handle it once it happens, and to feel absolutely no guilt or shame in that it has happened to you.  Take this as an opportunity to find a better match for yourself. Don’t let an employer or another person define any moment in your life.

As always, the Employment Divorce^® and Employment Therapy^® are here to help and guide you through this process.  Contact Us.