14 Easy Ways To Get Fired

At the start of any new job, there’s usually a hopeful intention to stay for a significant period. However, circumstances can shift, and sometimes you may find yourself dreading your work environment.

If you find yourself waking up each morning wishing for an end to your job, know that you’re not alone. Many individuals dislike their jobs but face financial constraints that prevent them from leaving voluntarily.

Being fired can open the door to severance packages or unemployment benefits, providing a financial cushion as you transition to a new opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• Three of the easiest ways to get fired are making clients angry, consuming alcohol during work hours, and misusing company internet resources.

• Quitting generally presents a more favorable impression on job applications compared to being fired.

• Getting dismissed for justifiable reasons may qualify you for severance and unemployment benefits, whereas being fired for poor reasons can hinder your chances of receiving a positive reference from that employer.

14 Easy Ways to Get Fired

If you’re unconcerned about the stigma associated with being “the person who got fired,” you’re in luck—losing your job can be easier than you think! Follow these 14 tips to help expedite your exit.

1. Consistently arrive late. This classic approach shows a lack of respect for punctuality and commitment. Feel free to hit that snooze button multiple times to really emphasize your indifference.

   Bringing a coffee from your favorite café will perfectly complement your laid-back “I don’t care” vibe.

2. Take your time getting settled. Upon arriving at your desk, take your sweet time to settle in—enjoy your coffee, scroll through your phone, or watch a few funny videos. This will clearly demonstrate your lack of enthusiasm for productivity.

3. Indulge in long lunches. If your company only gives you an hour for lunch, take full advantage! Spend time catching up with friends, snapping the perfect food photo, and running personal errands—your work can wait.

4. Drink alcohol during work hours. Enjoy a drink or two during lunch, and don’t worry about the consequences. Who cares if you return to the office unable to focus?

5. Make excessive personal phone calls. With around 8 hours at the office, it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends. Speak at length about anything that comes to mind, regardless of your work responsibilities.

6. Make clients upset. Remember, they don’t sign your paycheck, so why should you care? If they’re looking for assistance, just ignore them or deliberately give them the wrong information.

7. Misuse company internet. Spend your work hours scrolling through social media and sending personal emails. Downloading movies or music on your work computer? Go for it! Just remember that adult sites are a surefire way to get caught.

8. Never offer help to coworkers. Why lend a hand when you can just let your colleagues struggle? Stay uninvolved, and make sure they know you’re not interested in teamwork.

9. Lie on your application or resume. If you’re committed to getting fired before you even start, why not embellish your qualifications? Honesty may indicate that you actually want to stay employed.

10. Job search while at work. If you’re eager to move on, use your work hours to apply for other jobs. Just be aware that your employer may be monitoring your activities, which could lead to quick dismissal.

11. Alienate your coworkers. To effectively do your job, you need collaboration. So, if you’re trying to get fired, become the office gossip and isolate yourself from your team.

12. Blame others for your mistakes. Shift responsibility onto your coworkers to show your unreliability. This will surely lead to a loss of trust and ultimately your job.

13. Demonstrate incompetence. Make frequent, noticeable mistakes that reflect poorly on your performance. This will likely lead to your dismissal as your errors accumulate.

14. Wait for layoffs. If you suspect your department is facing layoffs, discuss your desire to be on the list with your supervisor. This can facilitate your exit while ensuring you receive unemployment benefits.

These 14 strategies provide ample justification for your dismissal, but be aware that some could lead to legal complications.

Is It Better to Quit or Be Fired?

While quitting is generally more favorable, there are scenarios where being fired could work in your favor.

Consider the pros and cons of each option:

Quitting:

• Quitting enhances your employment history.

• When explaining your decision to leave in interviews, you control the narrative, which can ease your job search, especially in a competitive market.

• Quitting increases your chances of receiving a good reference letter.

Getting Fired:

• If fired for valid reasons, you may qualify more easily for unemployment benefits.

• Depending on company policy, you may receive a severance package.

• Being fired for inappropriate reasons can damage your reputation and hinder future job prospects.

How To Get Fired FAQ

1. Can I get unemployment if I quit?
   In most cases, those who voluntarily quit are not eligible for unemployment benefits. Exceptions exist for individuals who leave for justifiable reasons.

2. Can I be randomly fired?
   Yes, your employer can terminate your employment at any time, but if the dismissal is unjust, you may contest it.

3. Can I say I quit if I was fired?
   Yes, you can claim you quit, but be cautious as many employers verify employment history.

4. Can you get fired for asking for a raise?

   While it’s not illegal to be fired for asking for a raise, most employers recognize that it’s poor business practice.

5. Can you get fired for dating a coworker?

   Yes, particularly in at-will employment states or companies with policies against workplace relationships.

Final Thoughts

If your job isn’t fulfilling and you’re confident in your ability to find a better opportunity, consider quitting rather than risking a negative exit. Leaving on good terms is often the best choice.

However, if you’d prefer to exit dramatically, you now have a guide to follow.

And if you love your job and want to stay, you’ve also learned what pitfalls to avoid to keep your dream job. At Zippia, we’re here to support your career journey.

References

1. Harvard Business Review – The Right Way To Be Fired

2. Forbes – Why Getting Fired Like a Pro Is Always in Your Best Interest

Author

Maddie Lloyd

Maddie Lloyd was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog focused on researching tips for interview, resume, and cover letter preparation. She's currently a graduate student at North Carolina State University's department of English concentrating in Film and Media Studies.