With everything that’s going on with the pandemic, job security is the primary focus of every American household. However, even in cases where you have been working efficiently, job termination is always a looming possibility regardless of how long you have been with a company.
In some instances, your upcoming job loss may not be apparent. While in others, it may be more obvious if your boss suddenly recommends that you take time off. As such, it’s important that you pay attention to signs which indicate that you may lose your job. In this post we’ll take a look at some warning signs to look out for, as well as some tips to consider when it comes to avoiding termination.
The Importance Of Recognizing Job Termination Signs
Signs You May Be Getting Terminated
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1. You Receive Multiple Negative Job Performance Reviews
Receiving multiple negative job performance reviews is one of the more obvious signs, that your job title may be on the line. This is because performance reviews consist of a combination of your behavior, work and attitude. If you have received negative performance reviews, pay especially close attention to phrases such as “Candidate may not be a good fit” or “Attitude and behavior is unprofessional”.
However, it’s important to note that one single negative review does not necessarily mean the company will let you go. In fact, most companies will give their employees the opportunity to make the necessary adjustments to improve their performance, before they make a final decision as to whether they should terminate said employee.
2. Getting Left Out
If you are in an essential position at your job, yet you find yourself in a situation where they no longer ask for your input or if you notice that you’re being left out of crucial conversations, this may be an early warning sign of job termination. While it may be true that multiple factors may explain the reason behind this, in most cases your manager may not feel as confident about your opinions or abilities anymore.
3. Jobs Seems More Cumbersome
In some instances, you may get more difficult tasks to complete with very little instructions on how you can effectively do them. In some instances, it may be a result of poor management. In other cases, it could be the company’s way of letting you go.
4. Several Warnings
Written and verbal warnings can lead to job loss. This is especially true if your manager highlights errors you have made without providing you with feedback as to how you can correct them. In the event that your managers start criticizing everything you do, it may be time to start thinking about getting another job.
5. Sudden Time-off and Demotions
Everyone likes some time off especially when its close to the holidays. If your superior tells you to take a sudden leave of absence such as to recommend time to clear your head or if they have recently demoted you, this is another tell tale sign of an upcoming termination.
In situations like these employees are typically moved to conduct less crucial tasks. In a scenario like this, employees can communicate with their boss to get a better understanding as to why they got demoted or was asked to take a sudden leave of absence.
6. Mergers
Statistics indicate that mergers typically lead to staff reductions. If your company recently participated in a merger, see if you can determine if there’s an overlap in your job duties with other employees. This doesn’t always mean that you will be terminated per se, but it could affect you.
How to Minimize the Possibility of Getting Terminated
1. Go the Extra Mile
Sometimes, you need to go above and beyond to keep your job. This is especially true if you personally feel that you’re on thin ice, so to speak. Some of the things you can do to accomplish this is to show up to work early every day, as well as to offer to work overtime for special events or to provide on-the-job training.
2. Communicate With Your Boss
Take advantage of any opportunity you get to communicate with your boss. In addition to this, try to ensure that you’re showing interest in helping the company in areas they may need help with such as being short staffed during the holiday season or to volunteer to come in, whenever someone calls out.
3. Improve Your Demeanor
In some instances, your attitude and behavior may be the primary reason why your job is at risk. In a situation like this you should strive to be more memorable and visible. Demonstrate that you have a true passion for the job and that take the time to fully address the needs of clients and customers that need help.
It’s important to note that if you feel like you may get terminated due to the no fault of your own, or for gender, racial or any other stereotypical reason, you should consult an employment lawyer.