How Not to Get Fired (and What to Do If You’re Thinking About Finding a New Job)

 No one wants to be caught off guard by the dreaded “you’re fired” conversation. Whether you’ve just started a new job or you’ve been with your company for years, the threat of being let go can always feel like a looming cloud.

But here’s the thing: getting fired isn’t just about avoiding certain mistakes — it’s also about maintaining the right mindset and strategies that keep you safe in your role and, more importantly, ensure you’re growing and thriving in your career.

In this post, we’ll talk about how to avoid the common pitfalls that lead to getting fired, and we’ll also offer advice on what to do if you feel like it’s time to move on and explore new opportunities.

Part 1: How Not to Get Fired — Strategies for Staying Safe and Succeeding at Work

Before we dive into how to find a new job, let's start with how to keep the job you currently have. It’s all about professionalism, attitude, and work habits.

1. Don’t Be Late or Slacking on Deadlines

One of the easiest ways to get on your boss’s bad side is to miss deadlines or show up late, day after day. This is particularly true if you’re in a role where timeliness is essential, like customer service or project management.

• Tip: Set reminders or alarms to help you stay on track. Use productivity tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to organize your day and keep an eye on deadlines. If you’re falling behind, communicate early with your boss — a little heads-up can go a long way.

2. Avoid Office Gossip and Drama

Office drama is toxic, and getting involved in gossip, complaints, or power struggles can quickly make you seem like a problem employee. Employers look for team players who help build a positive work culture, not people who add to the negativity.

• Tip: Keep conversations professional and steer clear of any toxic talk. If you're approached with gossip, politely change the subject or walk away. Instead, focus on building strong relationships with your colleagues and managers.

3. Be Proactive — Don’t Wait for Instructions

Employees who wait to be told what to do are usually the first to get laid off when things get tight. To stay relevant, you need to show initiative.

• Tip: Look for ways to add value. If you're not sure what to do next, ask how you can contribute more. Identify areas for improvement within your team or department and suggest solutions. When you're constantly looking for ways to contribute and help the company succeed, you're more likely to secure your position — and even get promoted.

4. Maintain a Positive Attitude and Stay Resilient

Work can be frustrating, especially when things don’t go your way. But having a negative attitude or complaining all the time can create a toxic environment and make you look like someone who's difficult to work with. Employers want employees who are resilient and can bounce back after challenges.

• Tip: Focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. When things go wrong, own up to it, learn from it, and make adjustments moving forward. Your ability to stay composed and positive will be noticed by your bosses.

5. Keep Learning and Improving Your Skills

The world of work is constantly evolving. If you're not staying up-to-date with your skills and industry trends, you risk being passed over in favor of employees who are more tech-savvy or better equipped for the role.

• Tip: Invest in yourself by learning new skills, attending workshops, or taking online courses. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or Udemy are great places to start. This shows your employer that you’re committed to growth and willing to adapt.

Part 2: If You’re Thinking About Leaving — Here’s How to Find a New Job

Even if you’re doing everything right, sometimes you may feel like it’s just not the right fit anymore. Whether you're dealing with a toxic environment, limited growth potential, or just need a change, finding a new job could be the best option.

Here’s how to handle the situation if you're ready to move on:

1. Reflect on What You Want in a New Job

Before jumping into job hunting, take a step back and ask yourself what you're looking for in a new role. Are you looking for a better work-life balance? More growth opportunities? A company with a better culture? Understanding what’s missing from your current role will help you narrow your focus when searching for a new job.

• Tip: Make a list of the top 5 things that matter most to you in your next job. These could include salary, flexibility, team dynamics, professional development opportunities, or company values. This will serve as your personal checklist when evaluating new job opportunities.

2. Start Networking

If you haven’t already, start networking now. Many jobs are never even advertised — they’re filled through word of mouth or referrals. Connecting with people in your industry, attending events, and making use of LinkedIn can all increase your chances of finding a role that’s a great fit.

• Tip: Reach out to your contacts, including former colleagues, mentors, or people you admire in your field. Let them know you’re looking for new opportunities and ask if they know of anything that’s a good match. The more people who know you're actively looking, the better your chances.

3. Leverage Job Boards — Find Opportunities Quickly

When you're ready to make the leap, job boards are an essential resource for quickly finding available positions. Here are some top places to look:

• ClickClickJobs.com: Great for those looking for both full-time and part-time work, ClickClickJobs helps you filter jobs by industry, salary, and location. Set up job alerts so you’re notified when new opportunities that match your skills and interests become available.

• Indeed: This platform is one of the most comprehensive job boards out there, with tons of listings from all types of companies. Create a profile, upload your resume, and start applying.

• LinkedIn: A powerful platform for networking and job searching, LinkedIn allows you to filter job openings based on criteria like salary, location, and job type. Plus, you can connect directly with hiring managers and recruiters.

• Glassdoor: Not only will Glassdoor give you access to job listings, but you can also research company reviews and salary information before applying. This can help you avoid companies that might not be the best fit.

4. Polish Your Resume and Online Presence

Before applying to new roles, make sure your resume, LinkedIn profile, and any other professional profiles are up-to-date and tailored for the positions you're targeting.

• Tip: Focus on your accomplishments rather than just your responsibilities. Use specific examples and metrics to show how you contributed to your previous company’s success.

5. Prepare for Interviews

Once you start landing interviews, make sure you’re prepared to answer questions about your current job and why you’re seeking a change. Keep your response positive and professional, focusing on your desire to grow, learn, and find a better fit.

• Tip: Be honest but diplomatic. Instead of criticising your current employer, explain that you’re looking for a position that offers more opportunities for growth, better alignment with your values, or a work environment that suits your lifestyle.

Stay Proactive and Keep Your Options Open

The best way to avoid getting fired is to stay proactive, stay positive, and be adaptable in your role. By constantly improving your skills, being a team player, and maintaining a good work ethic, you’re putting yourself in the best position for success.

If you’re considering a new job, remember: it’s never too late to find something better. Take the time to reflect on what you want, network, and use job boards to find the best opportunities for you.

Whatever your next steps may be, stay confident and focused — you’ve got this!