Fear of Being Fired, How to Deal With It

Wherever you work, with the difficult times many are facing today, you might find yourself more and more afraid of being fired. However, there are ways to deal with this situation. Here are some of them.
Fear of Being Fired, How to Deal With It

Last update: 18 March, 2021

Fear of being fired can make you really stressed. Even more so if the company is going through tough times. In fact, it’s one of the most worrying scenarios you can go through as an employee. Furthermore, it negatively affects both your work and your health.

Fear of being fired can affect both your productivity and your performance. It also negatively affects your relationships with your colleagues. Finally, it affects your own general levels of satisfaction. This can end up with you feeling really upset and uncomfortable. Therefore, it’s extremely important that you learn how to manage this particular fear.

Analyze your fear of being fired

Sometimes, your fears might be unfounded. In any case, the following steps can help free you from your worries.

A stressed man at his desk, perhaps he has a fear of being fired.

Assess the situation and your fear of being fired

The first step is to analyze and reflect on what’s happening. In fact, you need to assess the situation as objectively as possible. Firstly, work out whether there really is a danger of you losing your job. If you can’t find any real evidence, your fears are probably unfounded and you won’t be fired.

Find out why you have a fear of being fired

If you discover no evidence that you’re going to be fired after assessing the situation, you need to find out why you’re so worried. Some of your fears might come from previous experiences. Ask yourself where your fear of being fired comes from. Also, ask yourself why you’re feeling this way. That’ll help you take a closer look at the entire situation. You need to ease those irrational fears that are making you so uncomfortable and keeping you from doing your job properly.

Connect with your colleagues

It’s essential to have a good relationship with your colleagues. That creates a healthy working environment. Talk to them about how you feel. That’ll make them understand you a bit better. In fact, they might even talk to you about how they feel as well. Anyway, they’ll certainly be able to give you some support. That’ll help you cope.

Talk to your superior or boss about your fear of being fired

If you’re really afraid of being fired, talk to your superior or your boss. Having a private meeting with them might ease your fears. Furthermore, it’ll provide you with some information about the state of the company. Consequently, you’ll get to know if your job really is in danger. You can also take the opportunity to let your boss know how much you appreciate your position.

Prepare yourself for the worst

Being aware of possible dangers means you can prepare yourself for action. Hence, in certain circumstances, it might be a good idea to prepare yourself for possible dismissal.

Update your resumé

Doing so will boost your confidence. Particularly if you have to apply for new jobs. Don’t forget to add any relevant experiences or new skills you’ve learned since you last updated it.

Review your employment contract

Take a look at your employment contract to see if you might be entitled to any compensation for your years of service.

If that does prove to be the case, take a close look at the amount the company might be liable to pay you if they dismiss you. That’ll help you in making other plans. In addition, it’ll cover you financially while you look for another job.

Seek unemployment help

Unemployment pay can help you when you’re moving from one job to the next. Find out what your entitlements are. Furthermore, check whether you meet any necessary requirements to qualify for help.

A business meeting.

Get references from your current job

Before you leave your current job, make sure you get references. They’ll help you with your applications for new jobs. Your referees can vouch for both your personal qualities and work skills.

In addition, stay on good terms with your referees.

Be available

Show your availability to other companies you might like to work for. In this regard, it’s a good idea to contact the human resources departments of the companies you’re interested in.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.