Getting fired can hit hard—it's often emotional, unexpected, and leaves you questioning everything. But here's the reality: it's far more common than you might think. In 2025 alone, U.S. employers announced over 1.1 million job cuts, the highest since the pandemic, driven by cost-cutting, AI adoption, and efficiency drives across tech, finance, retail, and more. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Intel, and Starbucks have made headlines with significant reductions, and the trend shows no signs of fully stopping into 2026.
The good news? Experts agree that whether you were laid off, fired for performance, or even quit, the path forward is similar. It doesn't have to define your career. Career coaches and recruiters emphasize treating this as a transition opportunity. John Morgan, president at LHH, notes that job changes—voluntary or not—are now "pretty normal" in today's market.
Here are the key steps to take, based on advice from top career experts:
1. Stay Calm in the Moment—Don't Burn Bridges
Strong emotions are natural, but reacting poorly can haunt you later. Alan Stein, CEO of Kadima Careers (who's been fired multiple times himself), advises: "Leave on good terms, no matter how angry you feel. The industry is small, and karma is real."
- Avoid saying anything regrettable during the exit conversation.
- Politely ask for details on severance, references, and next steps.
- If offered a severance agreement, take time to review it—don't sign immediately if you're emotional.
Labor attorney Amy Epstein Gluck adds that many companies limit what they share about former employees (often just dates and titles) to avoid legal risks like defamation claims.
2. Give Yourself Time to Process (But Set a Limit)
Job loss triggers grief-like stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance. Stacey Perkins, a leadership coach at Korn Ferry, says reflection is crucial—especially if it involves behavioral issues—to avoid repeating patterns.
However, don't let it drag on indefinitely. Stein recommends about 30 days to grieve and reflect: "Longer than that, and you'll suffer until you make progress." Surround yourself with supportive people, or consider a career coach for objective guidance.
3. Build a Solid Job Search Plan
Once processed, shift to action—treat this like any job transition:
- Update your résumé with quantifiable achievements (avoid vague buzzwords).
- Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Add skills to your headline, post about your expertise, and enable the "Open to Work" banner.
- Network aggressively—it's more vital than ever in a competitive market flooded with applicants. Reach out to connections, attend events, and inform your network you're exploring opportunities.
- Consider upskilling: With AI reshaping roles, certifications or courses in high-demand areas (like AI tools or data analytics) can help you pivot.
4. Prepare a Positive, Forward-Looking Narrative
You don't need to hide the firing, but frame it strategically in interviews:
- Most employers won't dig deep—many stick to basic verification.
- Avoid badmouthing your old boss or company; it raises red flags.
- Focus on the future: "I was seeking a role more aligned with my strengths and aspirations," as suggested by Morgan.
- Keep details minimal: Oversharing can make you seem defensive.
Perkins warns: "The more detail you give, the more it sounds like you're covering something up."
This Could Be Your Turning Point
Being fired feels isolating, but it's often a catalyst for better opportunities. Many successful professionals have bounced back stronger by reflecting, planning, and networking proactively. In a market where efficiency and adaptability rule, use this time to position yourself as indispensable in your next role.
You're not alone—and your next chapter can be even better. Start small: Update that LinkedIn today, reach out to one contact, and take it from there. You've got this.