Many times, people are caught off guard when they are fired. Other times, they can see it coming from a mile away.
If you think something is up, trust your instincts. In many cases, especially at large corporations, employers will only act after they think they have taken the proper steps to protect themselves from legal action. They will work with company lawyers to make sure they are taking the proper precautions. Remember, however, that you have rights. A lawyer can examine your case and help you determine the best way to proceed.
Look Out For These Warning Signs
Since your employer is not likely to come straight out and say “we are going to fire you,” it is important to be on the lookout for signs that something bad could be coming:
- You start to receive negative performance reviews when this was never an issue before. This could be your employer trying to have documented proof that your performance was “slipping.”
- You do not receive a raise that you deserve.
- Your role is reduced. For example, your boss takes important clients away from you for no reason.
- Team leaders or other higher ups exclude you from meetings that you are normally a part of.
- You have to train someone, only to realize later you are training that person to do your job.
Do Not Wait. Seek Legal Advice Today.
As soon as you think your employer is getting ready to terminate you, talk to an employment law attorney. Also, make sure you are taking records of everything at work. Save all of your email correspondence and performance reviews and make notes of conversations. It’s possible that your attorney may be able to intervene to help you keep your job.
With the passage of time, many people realize that there were some obvious warning signs that a termination was coming and they just missed it. It does not hurt to talk with an attorney about whether you were the victim of wrongful termination or some other type of wrongful termination. You may find out that you have a case to make.