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Try not to freak out -

As shocking as it can be to get fired, try not to get angry or freak out. Try to remind yourself that flying into a rage or yelling at your boss will only make things worse.

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Try not to freak out -

Instead, try to focus on getting out of the meeting with your dignity intact. The more measured your immediate response, the better.

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Ask for reasons -

It's a good idea to ask your boss or HR manager why you are being fired. In some cases, it may be reassuring to learn you are being laid off rather than actually fired.

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Ask for reasons -

Whatever the reason for your firing, it is good to find out, since it will allow you to improve in a certain area for your next job.

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Don't sign anything straight away -

Soon after your boss tells you that you’re being fired, they will most likely hand you a stack of paperwork to sign. Do not sign anything straight away.

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Don't sign anything straight away -

Instead, take some time to look over it and run it by a lawyer if possible. You may find that you are able to negotiate a higher severance package than is being offered.

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End the meeting with a handshake -

As difficult as this can be to do, it is a good idea to end the meeting with a handshake if you can. This way you can try to stay on good terms with your now former employer and not burn any bridges.

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Avoid gossip -

Once you have left the room, avoid circulating the office and telling people you’ve been fired. This looks unprofessional and can cause friction between you and your former employer.

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Talk about it -

This may be painful at first, but telling people out loud that you were fired can help you deal with the trauma. Try to unpack your negative feelings in an open way.

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Talk about it -

If a potential new employer asks how you left your old job, be honest. Explain the situation around your firing and emphasize that you left the company on good terms. This shows you are honest, upfront, and professional.

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Turn to loved ones -

Focus on your relationships with your loved ones. Remind yourself that they’re there to support you during the hard times as well as enjoying the good times.

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Turn to loved ones -

As tempting as it can be to isolate yourself and try to deal with this difficult situation on your own, you will most likely find it helpful to lean on others for support.

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Talk to a therapist -

If you have strong feelings of anger after being fired, it's a good idea to talk to a therapist or counselor. They will be able to help you work through those feelings.

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Talk to a therapist -

Although you may be tempted to focus solely on moving forward, it is important to process any negative feelings thoroughly first, so you can move forward in a healthy and stable way.

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Avoid 'what ifs' -

It is important to avoid falling into the trap of asking yourself ‘what if’ questions. "What if I hadn’t been late for that meeting?" or "What if I’d done more overtime?" won’t help you.

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Avoid 'what ifs' -

Rather than focusing on the ‘what ifs,’ try to focus on the ‘what nows?’ "What can I do now to move forward?" is much more positive and constructive.

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Use your time wisely -

It can be very easy after being fired to fall into a routine of inactivity or lethargy. However, it is far better to use the extra time to focus on your hobbies or learn a new skill.

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Use your time wisely - For example, you might finally read that book that’s been sitting on your shelf for two years, or you could declutter your home and donate anything that’s not needed to charity.

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Plan your finances -

An important step to take after being fired is to look at your finances. To be safe, you should assume you won’t find a new job for several months.

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Plan your finances -

Take the time to sit down and plan your monthly budget, taking into account any savings and/or investments. Work out how you are going to sustain yourself while not working.

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Think about your next step -

Once you’re ready to start looking for a new job, take the time to consider what you enjoyed and what you didn’t enjoy about your previous job.

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Think about your next step -

Consider how happy you were overall in your previous job and work out whether you might be happier doing something else entirely. It could be time for a career change.

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Identify your transferable skills - If you do decide that it’s time for a change, it’s important to think about your transferable skills. These are skills such as strong communication and timeliness that come in handy in most jobs.

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Identify your transferable skills -

If you aren’t sure what transferable skills you learnt in your previous job(s), look for an assessment online. There are plenty of self-assessment tools that can help you identify your strengths.

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Create a plan -

Once you have worked out the job, or the type of job you want, draw up a plan for how to get there. The plan might include steps such as updating your resume and attending networking events.

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Create a plan -

Looking for a new job can seem daunting at first, but outlining the steps you need to take can break down the task and help focus your mind.

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Interview yourself -

The idea of attending a job interview is scary at any time, let alone after being fired. Practicing by interviewing yourself, however, can help calm those nerves.

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Interview yourself -

Sit down and ask yourself questions such as "What are my weaknesses?" and "What are my goals?" That way you will be properly prepared when a potential employer asks.

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Consider temping -

Although it may not be ideal, try not to write off a temporary position if one comes up. This is particularly important if money is tight.

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Consider temping -

Temporary positions can open the door to many great opportunities, so go into your job search with an open mind and try not to write things off without considering them carefully.

See also: Celebrities get real about the worst jobs they've ever had

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