If you work in an office and think you may be fired, being prepared for what will happen can make a big difference. They will take your computer, office access key and cell phone, usually immediately. I learned most of this the day that my company laid off 200 people.
Being in IT, I was expected to be part of the assembly line where we collected their office equipment. It was very difficult, to say the least but it helped me to remain calm when it was my turn. Do these things immediately, because things can go downhill rapidly and you may not have time later.
10 - Copy any personal files from your business computer to a flash drive and remove them.
9 - If you have a company cell, save your contacts. Consider getting a personal cell.
8 - Keep a printed list of your most important phone contacts and keep them in your purse or wallet.
7 - Export your Email contacts to a file and email it to yourself.
6 - If you primarily use your work email for personal things, get a free email account and use that instead.
Being in IT, I was expected to be part of the assembly line where we collected their office equipment. It was very difficult, to say the least but it helped me to remain calm when it was my turn. Do these things immediately, because things can go downhill rapidly and you may not have time later.
10 - Copy any personal files from your business computer to a flash drive and remove them.
9 - If you have a company cell, save your contacts. Consider getting a personal cell.
8 - Keep a printed list of your most important phone contacts and keep them in your purse or wallet.
7 - Export your Email contacts to a file and email it to yourself.
6 - If you primarily use your work email for personal things, get a free email account and use that instead.
5 - Forward any important personal or performance related email to your personal account.
4 - Clean up your email, Inbox and Sent Items too. Remove anything you wouldn't want your entire management reading.
3 - Update your resume. It's a good exercise to remind yourself of your own value.
2 - If you have the means to do so, consult an attorney. It's just nice to have someone on your team informing you of your rights.
1 - Remember who you are and that you will survive this.
Other suggestions:
Social networking is a great help when you suddenly lose your job because it allows you to quickly get in touch with others that can help you find a job . If you don't use Facebook and LinkedIn, consider setting up an account now.
I like to have a mantra for just these instances. A few weeks ago I noticed a Psalm written on a post it note at someone's desk: "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" That definitely gave me pause for thought and carried me through a rough time.
Keep Calm and Carry On.
Note: This is not legal advice and some of these items may be in violation of your company rules. Use your own judgement.
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