10 Reasons for Getting Fired

BY
ALISON DOYLE

There are many reasons that companies fire employees. But for most employees,
companies don't need a reason. Unless you are covered by a collective bargaining
agreement or employment contract, you're likely an at-will employee. Employment at
will means that an employee can be terminated at any time without any reason and
without notice.

That said, most employers won't fire an employee without cause. Most firings are
considered termination for cause, which means the employee is fired for a specific
reason. Also, keep in mind that a job termination is different from a lay-off, which
takes place when an employee is let go because of a lack of work.

The chart below illustrates a few reasons why bosses choose to terminate an
employee due to certain behaviors, and the percent on average that bosses
choose to terminate versus those who don't.

10 Reasons Employees Can Get Fired

Take a look at some of the most common reasons that employees can get
fired from their jobs. Consider this a list of "what not to do" and avoid making
these mistakes at all costs.
1. Damaging Company Property. You know that scene in the movie Office Space
where three employees destroy the printer? It's funny in the movie, but in real life,
that's a fireable offense. Whether intentional or not, if your actions lead to
damage to the company's property or equipment, it could result in the loss of your
job.
2. Drug or Alcohol Possession at Work. Being intoxicated or taking drugs in
the workplace will interfere with your on-the-job performance, and with some
drugs, may be illegal as well.
3. Falsifying Company Records. Not only is this unethical, but this could result in
long-term legal or performance problems for the company.
4. Insubordination. You don't have to say "yes" to all requests or always agree
with your manager. However, a refusal to obey orders, obstructionist behavior, or
contentious communications can lead to a loss of your job. If you disagree with
your manager's requests or policies, express it politely or get in touch with the
company's Human Resources department for help with mediation.
5. Misconduct. There's a lot that falls into this category from sexual harassment to
bullying to criminal misbehavior. Unethical conduct, including lying, stealing, fraud,
and industrial espionage, also falls within this category.
6. Poor Performance. Companies want employees who do their work and do it
well. Fundamentally, if you are not fulfilling the duties outlined in your job
description, you are receiving warnings about your performance, or if your work
requires oversight or often needs to be re-done, you are not a good investment
for the company.
7. Stealing. Not only is it illegal, but it's a fireable offense. This includes petty theft,
such as a box of pens or ream of paper, as well as stealing money or large items
or equipment from the company.
8. Using Company Property for Personal Business. Most companies won't mind if
you use the office copier for a personal document or send an occasional personal
email from your work computer. However, constant use of the Internet or office
equipment for personal matters or for working on your side gig isn't acceptable.
 9. Taking Too Much Time Off. If you're always late, frequently take sick days, or go
beyond all your vacation days, employers will notice. Your absence could interfere
with work getting done—both your own work and the work of others on your team.
10. Violating Company Policy. Policies vary from company to company, and it's a
good idea to review your company's policies when you get hired carefully. Some
companies, for instance, may have a policy on office dating, appropriate conduct in
person and on social media, and much more. Make sure to follow these rules.

WORKSHOP
Read carefurlly the 10 reasons to get fired and write a short text answering the following
questions
1. Mention some famous examples about people who were fired. Add your opinión
about them
2. What do you think about firing employees without any reason or notice? Can you
describe some situations about this?
3. What rights do you have if your job is terminated?