How to deal with being fired?

There are countless books, blogs, and videos about how to land a job—but very few on how to leave one, especially when you're let go.

These days, people are often notified by email or even text message. No handshake. No conversation. Just a line in your inbox that instantly changes everything.

You may not want to respond—and that's okay. But if you do, keep it short, simple, and composed. Remember, you're hired to be fired. If you're lucky, the company will let you go with dignity. But many won't. And no matter how it happens, the best thing you can do is leave with grace, class, and optimism. Staying composed in such situations is a sign of your strength and control.

I say this from experience. I've been let go at least eight times in my career. I didn't always handle it well, but I finally got it right the last time. Remember, you're not alone in this experience.

It was a day I usually worked from home. My boss asked me to come into the office to give him a project update. Then his assistant called to delay the meeting by 30 minutes. Her tone was unusually formal—like she didn't even know me. My gut told me something was off.

I'd had some disagreements with my boss, and a promotion that was in motion had suddenly been withdrawn. Everything pointed to one outcome: I was about to be let go.

So I prepared myself.

When I arrived at his office, his door was closed. I knocked. He opened it and welcomed me in. Someone from HR was sitting at the table, which confirmed it.

He started talking, but I didn't really listen. I was focused on staying calm and composed. I had nothing to argue or plead. When he asked if I had any questions, I simply smiled and said, "Thank you. Good luck." Then I walked out like nothing had happened.

I turned in my badge and my laptop and left the building.

Was I hurt? Of course. I liked my job. I took it seriously. But I didn't let it show. I didn't ask why or try to make sense of it. They had to do what they thought was best for the business. And I accepted that—because that's the nature of the game.

I remembered a line from The Godfather Part II. When Michael Corleone asks Hyman Roth about the attempted killing of a family member, Roth snaps, "This is the business we've chosen." That line stuck with me. It applies beyond the mafia to any line of work.

You're in the wrong business if you can't handle being let go.

That was my last corporate job—over 20 years ago. And I still remember it vividly. So, if you ever find yourself in that position, here's my advice:

Smile. Say, "Thank you. Good luck." Then, walk away.

Don't say more. You'll only regret it later. And it won't change anything.
And remember—letting someone go is hard. Your boss may not show it, but they're likely in a difficult position.

This is the business we've chosen.

So move on with your head high, and remember, every end is a new beginning. Stay positive and hopeful for the opportunities that lie ahead.


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Impactful communication is our only and last differentiator in winning against AI. AI will beat us in everything except excellent communication. I guide people when they must win through communication, such as getting a good job, advancing in career or winning a sales deal.
I wrote a practical, no-nonsense book on winning throuhg speaking titled Winning Speech Moments: How to Achieve Your Objective with Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere. 
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