I have this fear

[windy252]

I'd post this in a group forum, but I'm caught in a vicious cycle where I can't get a job, so I can't afford to make a donation to DU at this time. About a year back, I was fired for what I thought was really a stupid reason. I've had jobs since, but haven't been able to get another decent one since a tutoring job this past year. I wonder if I've been having trouble because I was fired from a job in 2006 for a really stupid reason. And because of that, I have this fear whenever I start work for a new employer, I'm going to be fired for the smallest mistake.

[GoddessOfGuinness]

1. I think it's good to be on your toes when you start a new job...

but maybe you don't need to turn it into a full-blown phobia.

Know what's expected of you, and do it religiously. If you make a mistake, admit it, and do what you can to correct yourself.
If you really like this job, see if you can take a few steps above and beyond what is expected of you, without setting yourself up for abuse.

You say you were fired for a stupid reason, but it's hard to tell whether it was stupid or not unless you can elaborate on the story. It might help for you to analyze what happened to keep history from repeating itself.

[windy252]

5. I think that was one of the problems with that employer.

No one knew what they could and couldn't do. I was basically fired for walking the stairs in the wrong area without knowing I couldn't be there, but before that, three or four people sitting next to me were fired in the course of 5 or 6 months.

[GoddessOfGuinness]

6. Sounds like your previous employer was a nut case.

You might mention your concerns with your supervisor, and find out if there's a handbook with specific guidelines for employees. No one can fault you for taking the initiative to find out what is expected of you. Any decent employer would be glad you did.

Good luck! :hug:

[laylah]

2. I was fired from

an excellent job last September, for asking for help! Yes, asking the wrong freakin' person for help. True story. I haven't worked since. I am either under/over qualified or too old. But I hear what you're saying. :hug: good luck.

[alarimer]

4. I really do not understand why some employers are so petty

I guess it comes down to the fact that they have the power and you don't. But it's hard to play by they keep changing the rules or not telling you about them.

Sorry that happened to you.

[LibraLiz1973]

3. Try to relax

Many of us have been fired or let go or had to quit because of a dumb reason.
Don't kick yourself while you feel down!!

[GoddessOfGuinness]

7. That's an oxymoron.

If you try to relax; you're exerting yourself. You simply have to let go. :D