Employee discipline and termination can occur to any employee that is involved in an at-will employment contract or agreement. In some cases, the employer may not be required to provide a reason for the discipline or termination at the time of doing so. If you are being disciplined at work or facing termination, it is important to understand what to do.
What Is Employee Discipline & Termination?
Employee discipline is an action taken against an employee to correct mistakes or problems committed by the employee. This can include verbal warnings, written warnings and suspension. If the problem is not resolved, at-will employment gives the employer the ability to fire the employee as long as the termination is justifiable and legal.
What Should I Do If I Am Being Disciplined At Work?
Discipline in the workplace is not a major cause for concern. More often than not, discipline is administered by an employer to help the employee improve, not punish them for their behavior. If you are going through workplace discipline, you can respond properly by following the steps mentioned below.
Remain Calm And Collected
If you are given a warning, suspended or disciplined in another way, the first thing to do is take a deep breath, relax and collect yourself. This allows you to think more clearly and make rational decisions, especially during this potentially confusing and worrisome situation.
Take Good Notes And Communicate Effectively
Employee discipline can be a learning opportunity that can benefit not only your current situation but also your career as a whole. Find out the reason you are being disciplined, take detailed notes and communicate in a clear and calm manner how you plan to fix your real or perceived mistakes to senior members of the team.
Ask What You Can Do Differently
Rather than being defensive, have a healthy discussion with your manager or boss as to how you can improve your workplace performance. Keep an open mind and take their suggestions into consideration moving forward. This is a crucial step to avoiding termination and rebuilding trust with your boss.
Follow Up With Your Boss After Discipline
Let your boss know that you plan to implement the necessary changes and improvements after discipline is over. If you do not feel confident with your job security, consider networking and contemplate a change in employment.
What Should I Do If I Was Terminated?
You should remember that there are options available after termination, and you should continue to work towards finding your next opportunity. The following tips should help you when taking the next step after termination.
Understand You Are Not Alone
The unfortunate reality is that termination is a risk that employees take. If you were terminated, then understand that you are not the first one to be fired and many after you will be fired as well. The important thing is to remain confident in your work within your industry as you decide on your next career move.
Negotiate For As Much Severance Pay As Possible
Severance pay is financial compensation given to employees that are terminated. You should negotiate confidently and understand your legal rights to severance pay. Do not hesitate when it comes to money — ensure you are receiving a fair amount from your previous employer.
Improve Your Resume And Begin The Job Search
In the event you are terminated, it is important to get right back out there and search for job opportunities in your area. Start with updating your resume with experience and reference and searching for your next place of employment.
Speak With An HR Professional About Next Steps
If you are still not sure why you were terminated or what to do next, then contact a third-party HR professional and speak with them about the details of your situation and what options are available to you after termination.
Schedule a 1-on-1 with a remote HR consultant today!
At HR Search & Rescue, we are happy to help you navigate your workplace discipline or termination. You can schedule a visit with one of our professional HR consultants today by calling us at (844) 934-3293 or scheduling a 1-on-1 meeting today.