Edition: May 4th, 2021
Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS
Excerpts from article published in lollydaskal.com
Nobody starts a new job hoping to be fired. The most important thing is to do good work without making trouble — but there are lots of factors that can make or break your success.
Here are some of the most common missteps that get people fired:
1. Lying on your job application
Many people inflate their qualifications a bit on job applications, and the usual assumption is that once you get the job, all that matters is how well you perform. But most companies now have a zero tolerance policy for dishonest applications, and discovery of a false statement is enough to get you fired even if you’re doing a great job. Also, if there are inconsistencies between what you’ve said you can do and your performance on the job, your entire application may get a second, closer look.
2. Disrespecting leadership
If you disrespect those in charge, you shouldn’t be surprised if they ask you to leave. The attitude you bring to the workplace, the respect you give, and your happiness in your work are largely your choice. So, choose wisely.
3. Slacking off on the job
No one wants a slacker on their team or in their company. If you’re not making the effort and maintaining a strong work ethic, there’s a good chance that you won’t be around long. Make sure you behave today in ways that your future self will thank you for.
4. Not being a team player
To do most jobs effectively requires the cooperation, support and goodwill of those around you. Becoming detached from those you work with could get you replaced with someone who can work well with others. Whatever your personal feelings about people, make it a point to build and maintain good working relationships with everyone on your team.
5. Keeping toxic company
If you spend most of your time with complainers, gossipers and grumblers, you’re casting yourself in a bad light. Even if you aren’t engaging in the complaints and gossip, you will be judged by the company you keep. If you associate with toxic people, you’ll quickly be considered toxic yourself.
6. Leading from your ego
A healthy ego is a good thing to have, but that doesn’t mean insisting that you’re always right or that your way is the only way to get something done. An ego that gets in the way of efficiency and teamwork can earn you an invitation to leave.
7. Taking credit for other people’s work
If you are someone who never presents an original thought at work but takes credit for other people’s accomplishments, you will likely find yourself out of the door. Even if you get away with it for the moment, you can’t build success by taking credit for what others have done.
8. Not taking responsibility
When you make a mistake, admit it right away. The truth will almost always come out in time, and failing to hold yourself accountable just brings additional negative attention. Also, if you compound the problem by trying to blame your error on technology, a time crunch or the actions of others, you’ll almost certainly be seen as someone the organisation would be better off without.
9. Indiscreet job hunting
If you’re looking for a new job, don’t send your resume from your work computer or use the office printer and paper! Emails are often monitored, and using company resources for your job hunt (or any personal business) is a firing offense in many workplaces.
If you’re like most people, you start a new job with the best of intentions. However, if you don’t mind your steps, you may be asked to leave. To avoid being fired, take complete responsibility about who you are and what you do in the workplace.
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)
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