You had a job. Now you don’t. How are you going to pay your mortgage and support your family? How will you deal with prospective employers so that you can get back onto our feet.

Employers in Canada can terminate your employment. If you have misconducted yourself in a significant way then your employer can let you go without paying you compensation. In the absence of misconduct the employer can let you go if they give you termination notice or they pay you some money.

Here are your first steps:

1. Often the employer will meet with you for an exit interview. Be polite and restrained as you can. Listen and see what the employer has to say and offer. Do not agree to or sign anything. Take notes and ask for some time to consider your position.

2. If there is an employment agreement and company employment policy manual ask for copies before you leave the building or make an arrangement to have it sent to you.

3. Ask about any benefit plan continuation.

3. Collect your personal items. Do not cause any damage. Leave the computer alone and do not log into the system. Do not send out any farewell emails. Do not discuss the situation in any manner on any social media.

5. Let your significant other know what has happened.

6. Call a professional that can give you some advice on what your position is. One to two hours of time can save you months of time and money. The advice will also help you from doing something that will damage your present position.