Facing Job Termination: Experiences and Lessons Learned

Have you ever faced a situation where your boss tried to fire you? This is a scenario that many professionals encounter throughout their careers. Reflections on such experiences can provide valuable insights into the human dynamics at play and the impact on the individual's future.

1983: The Turning Point for Honest Standing

In 1983, when I was 23, my workplace was a defining moment in my career and self-worth. The company was facing significant challenges, and there were many moments of tension and confrontation. On this particular day, December 24, 1983, at the end of a work week, my boss attempted to fire me.

The environment was tense. He approached me with a sense of authority, likely influenced by the holiday season and the impending departure of all other colleagues. He began to explain his intention, but I stood my ground, expressing my resignation and demanding severance and holiday pay. This action, combined with my refusal to compromise on the integrity of my work, left a lasting impression on both of us.

The Confrontation

He became visibly agitated, turning a deep shade of purple. His anger was evident, and he understood that my departure was imminent. However, there was a mutual hatred that defined our relationship. His frustration was palpable, and he handed over not just one, but three cheques in a desperate attempt to manage the situation.

The final moment of our confrontation was the most intense. He warned me with a growl that I would never see him again, which was met with a parallel declaration of my own. It was a moment of raw honesty and resolve in the face of adversity.

The Cowardly Route To Job Termination

Although my experience is one of courage and integrity, it is important to recognize that many employees face termination or downsizing situations that are far more nuanced. There are three primary categories of such scenarios.

The Honest Confrontation

Only a select few bosses are willing to face their employees head-on. In my case, the confrontation at the end of the year was a stark example of this. Many employers, however, choose a different route.

The Civil but Deceptive Approach

When an employer is unable or unwilling to confront the employee, they may opt for a more civil but ultimately deceptive approach. Phrases like "I’m afraid we’re going to have to let you go" are commonly used, and while they may not be followed by direct violence, they can be emotionally damaging.

The Cowardly Withdrawal

Some employers choose to avoid confrontation entirely. They may send a text, write a letter, or simply reduce an employee's working hours to zero. This method is particularly insidious as it dissociates the termination from human interaction, making the experience more stingy and impersonal.

The Worst Case Scenario: Evasion and Deception

One of the most egregious examples of job termination was when I worked for a large bank (HSCB), where my final days were marked by complete evasion and malice. They removed my keycard access, effectively rendering me an employee without a workplace.

This experience began on a Saturday morning. I performed my last shift and anticipated my usual goodbyes on Monday. However, the morning of Monday, when I attempted to access the building after my commute, I discovered that my access had been revoked. There was no explanation, no resolution, and I was locked out of my work environment.

The Lasting Impact

These experiences have a profound impact on an individual's resilience, integrity, and perseverance. The anger and frustration felt in such moments are often compounded by the practical ramifications of job loss, such as the financial strain and the psychological toll on self-esteem.

Lessons Learned

Through these experiences, several key lessons emerge. First, honesty and integrity can be vital in professional settings, even if it means sacrificing immediate employment. Additionally, the way a job is terminated can have lasting psychological and financial impacts on an individual.

Ultimately, these experiences serve as a reminder that workplace dynamics are complex, and it is important for employees and employers alike to navigate these challenges with honesty and respect.