Page 221 - Roy W. Rice - CEO Material How to Be a Leader in Any Organization-McGraw-Hill (2009)

202 • CEO Material: How to Be a Leader in Any Organization

What to Do If You Get Fired

Instead of fired, let’s use the word one large computer firm did in its
press release about 1,000 people being laid off—it was called a skill-
rebalance.
Regardless of the euphemism, being fired or laid off is often the
best possible thing that can happen to you. Many very successful
CEOs have been fired at one time (Donald Trump, Michael Bloomberg,
and Lee Iacocca, to name just a few well-known ones). In fact, the
earlier in your career that you experience it, the better; you’ll learn
that it’s something not to be afraid of—and your bosses can no longer
hold that power over you.
There are reasons people get justifiably fired; for example, the
person commits fraud, breaks agreements, is dishonest, or intentionally
damages company property. Most terminations center around work
duties and the economic condition of the organization. Never assume
that your job is totally secure. It isn’t. Your job is only as secure as the
emotions of your immediate supervisor.
December is the biggest month for job terminations; January is the
second. The managers who didn’t want to do it before the holidays
will do it in the beginning of the new year.
When the boss calls you in and delivers the news, listen carefully to
exactly what is being said. Don’t interrupt. Listen. If possible, write down
what is being said.
Don’t engage in debate. Trying to change his or her mind is usually
wasted effort. If you sincerely believe that the boss is making a mistake,
tell him or her. Occasionally, good bosses have been known to recognize
the mistake if someone has the self-confidence to point it out.
Women—and men—should refrain from crying. Tears won’t change
anything. They will only embarrass everyone. Refrain from giving a
detailed explanation of what you think about the boss and the boss’s
mother.
After the boss is finished, sit there, breath deeply, look out the
window for a moment, if necessary, and get composed. Ask for specific
clarification of the financial separation package.
State you’ll need time to think about the offer, and talk to the boss
again in a day or two. You have the option to ask for more money.
The boss can only say yes or no. He or she can’t fire you for asking!