Why was your colleague let go or even terminated? There are several reasons why someone gets fired from their job. One reason is that they need to meet the company’s expectations. Another reason is poor performance. Still, other reasons include being late for work, stealing from the workplace, and having a bad attitude.
If you want to get ahead at work, you should always try to avoid trouble. Unfortunately, some employees must follow company rules and regulations and often get caught red-handed. This can result in termination.
This article will discuss some of the most common reasons your coworker got fired from work. We hope that by reading through these reasons, you can understand what goes into getting fired at work.
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1. Misconduct
One of the main reasons employees get fired is because they have been found guilty of misconduct.
Misconduct includes theft, fraud, sexual harassment, and drug use. If you have ever worked with someone who has gotten fired due to misconduct, then you know how serious it is. It could be devastating for both the employee and the employer.
2. Insubordination
Another reason why an employee gets fired from work is insubordination. Insubordination occurs when an employee refuses to do something that is required of them. For example, you may get fired if you refuse to participate in company activities. In addition, follow instructions to avoid getting fired.
This type of behavior can lead to problems within the organization. The employee may be unable to perform their duties properly, which means that the business suffers as a result.
3. Poor Performance
Employees may get fired simply because they need to perform better. Poor performance can occur in many different ways. For instance, if you consistently miss deadlines, you may get fired. You may also lose your job if you are constantly tardy.
Sometimes, employers fire people because they feel their skills need improvement. They may think that there is no point in keeping them around.
4. Lack Of Skill

Some employees may get fired because they lack certain skills. For example, a person needs to improve communication skills to communicate effectively. As a result, the person may need help to do their job correctly.
It is important to note that sometimes companies hire individuals who need more experience. However, they will train them over time so that they can learn new skills. When they finally reach a level where they are ready to handle more responsibility, then they will promote them.
5. Failure To Meet Expectations
Sometimes, an employee will get fired simply because they need to meet the expectations set forth by the employer. For example, employees might get fired if they fail to complete tasks on time.
It is important to remember that every company has its standards. Some organizations expect employees to arrive early, while others require them to leave late. This is why it is important to ensure you meet your workplace’s requirements.
If you meet those expectations, then you may avoid being let go.
6. Disrespectful Behavior
Sometimes, an employee gets fired simply because they behave disrespectfully towards coworkers. For example, if one of your colleagues makes fun of another coworker behind their back, this may cause trouble.
As a result, the person who was made fun of may decide to retaliate against the offender. They may even report the incident to management.
The problem is that the person who got fired may not have done anything wrong. Therefore, they may end up losing their job.
7. Damaging Company Property
Sometimes, an employee is terminated for damaging company property. You could face legal action and possibly even jail time if you damage company property.
For example, you may be charged with theft if you steal company equipment. It is important to keep in mind that stealing company property can cost you dearly.
You may end up having to pay fines and court fees. In addition, you may also be forced to serve time in prison.
You should never take advantage of your position at work. Instead, you should always act responsibly.
8. Possession of Alcohol or Drugs on the Job
Employees who use drugs or alcohol at work may be fired. This is especially true when the drug or alcohol is illegal.
In some cases, employers may test workers for drugs or alcohol. If they find out that you were using drugs or alcohol, then you may be fired.
This is why you need to stay away from drugs and alcohol. If you want to continue working at your current place of employment, you must avoid these substances.
9. Stealing
Stealing is something that happens all too often. Employees who steal from their employers may be fired.
There are many reasons why people steal from their employers. For example, they may want to buy food or clothing for themselves. They may also like to purchase items such as tools or electronics.
Regardless of your reason, you shouldn’t steal from your employer. You may think you won’t get caught, but you probably will.
10. Falsifying Company Records

Some companies have strict policies regarding the falsification of records. Falsifying company records can lead to termination.
For example, there are times when an employee needs to change information on a document. However, instead of doing so, they may alter the composition.
When this happens, the person who altered the document may be fired. As a result, they may lose their job. It is important to remember that falsifying documents can land you in serious trouble.
11. Taking Too Much Time Off
You may be punished if you take more than the allotted amount of vacation days. Taking too much time off can lead to termination. The same thing goes for taking sick leave.
It is important to note that employees can only take excessive time off if they get approval from their supervisors.
If you do not follow the rules your employer set, you may be disciplined or fired.
12. Being Unprofessional
Unprofessional behavior can lead to termination. For example, you may make inappropriate comments about other employees.
These comments could include making fun of someone, talking behind someone’s back, or gossiping. These behaviors are unacceptable.
They can cause problems within the workplace. Therefore, you should try to control your unprofessional behavior.
13. Fighting With Other Workers
Fighting with coworkers can lead to termination. Fighting with coworkers is never acceptable.
You should always keep your emotions under control. If you fight with another worker, you may lose your job.
As a result, you may have to start looking for new employment.
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14. Violating Company Policy
Violating company policy can lead to termination. There are many different types of violations. Some examples include:
- Using the wrong kind of equipment
- Not following safety procedures
- Being late to work
- Making false statements
- Lying
- Engaging in sexual harassment
- Refusing to perform certain tasks
- Talking negatively about the company
Conclusion
Your former coworker probably lost their job for one of the reasons listed above.
On the other hand, if you feel your termination was unjust, you should seek legal counsel. You can sue your former employer for wrongful dismissal with the advice of an attorney.
Contact our professional resume writers if you can relate to these often-cited dismissal causes. They know what employers are looking for in a resume and can help you improve yours to get the desired job. Don’t hesitate to contact us right now.