18 Reasons You Can Get Fired from a Job

No one ever expects to get fired. Most people work hard, stay out of trouble, and keep personal complaints to a close circle of family or friends to avoid putting their job at risk. However, staying under the radar and doing your job well doesn’t always guarantee job security.

The truth is, job loss can happen for reasons far beyond the obvious, and it’s not always about major mistakes. There are many small, subtle ways that behaviors or attitudes—often unnoticed or overlooked—can lead to a termination. You don’t have to engage in blatant misconduct to find yourself out the door.

For example, most workers in today's economy are considered "at-will" employees, meaning they can be fired for almost any reason, or even no reason at all. While employment laws vary from state to state, unless you’re in a union or have a specific contract, this rule applies to you. And while some dismissals might seem unfair—such as being let go for minor personal habits or issues like not owning up to mistakes—these things can still result in losing your job.

This blog will explore both well-known and lesser-known behaviors and situations that could put your job in jeopardy, without you even realizing it.

How to Get Terminated: 18 Common Fireable Offences 

When starting a new job, most people are filled with enthusiasm and optimism, confident that they’ll do well and never find themselves in danger of being fired. After all, getting fired is typically associated with major misconduct, like gross incompetence or blatant theft, right? Not necessarily. In reality, job security is often more fragile than we think, and the path to being let go can be much less obvious than we imagine.

To safeguard your position and avoid being caught off guard, it’s important to stay aware of the subtle missteps that can lead to termination. The following checklist highlights 18 common mistakes that can cost you your jobs or sometimes even careers. By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll keep your employment on solid ground.

Consistently Underperforming

Don’t be a bad investment to your employer! In any job, your performance speaks volumes about your professionalism and dedication. Employers expect their employees to meet set targets, produce quality work, and contribute positively to the company's success. When you're falling short of expectations, it’s only a matter of time before your boss notices.

Consistent underperformance, whether it's missing deadlines, failing to deliver high-quality work, or showing little initiative, can quickly make you a liability. Employers tend to look for employees who are proactive, solution-oriented, and consistently hit their goals. If you’re constantly struggling to meet targets or failing to contribute in meaningful ways, you're putting your job at risk.

If you sense your performance is slipping, it’s wise to take stock of your achievements, revisit your goals, and actively address any obstacles that are hindering your progress. Having open, honest discussions with your manager about your performance and demonstrating a willingness to improve will show that you're committed to finding solutions. Proactively seeking help or feedback to resolve issues can make you more valuable to the team and demonstrate your dedication to both personal growth and company success.

Fabricating Details on Your Resume or Job Application

Honesty is essential right from the start, especially when it comes to your qualifications. Employers routinely verify the details you provide, and discrepancies—whether intentional or accidental—can easily cost you your job. For instance, a simple lie about educational credentials can have serious repercussions. Even if the position doesn't explicitly require a degree, claiming one that you don't possess could lead to dismissal once the truth comes to light, often within the first few weeks of employment.

 

Personal Use of Company Assets 

It may seem obvious, but it’s worth considering the small, seemingly innocent things people take from the office. Think it’s harmless to grab a few reams of printer paper or a handful of snacks at the end of the day? Or perhaps you "misplace" a mouse or charger and expense a replacement? These may seem like minor actions, but they all fall under the category of taking what isn’t yours—and that’s something most companies don’t take lightly.

It’s easy to justify small items like pens, paper, or tea bags, especially when the value feels negligible. But if you ever stop and think about what you're taking—whether intentionally or by mistake—you’ll realize that it's always best to err on the side of caution. A single slip-up might not raise an eyebrow, but if there's ever any doubt about your intentions, it's a risk that’s simply not worth taking.

Lying to Your Boss or Clients

We all tell little white lies now and then, but there’s a big difference between a harmless fib and a significant deception. Telling your boss you’re too sick to come in when you’re actually just avoiding work might get you through a tough morning, but telling an outright lie—like fabricating a family emergency to take time off for a vacation—can have serious consequences.

The same goes for clients. While it may feel tempting to stretch the truth to avoid an awkward situation or to cover up a mistake, lies often have a way of coming back to haunt you. The truth has a tendency to surface, and when it does, the consequences can be far worse than if you had simply been upfront from the start. Trust is a cornerstone of professional relationships, and once it's broken, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to rebuild.

Ignoring Company Policies

Every company has its own set of rules and policies that govern employee conduct—whether it’s how to interact with colleagues, the proper way to engage with clients, or how to behave during company-sponsored events. These policies are in place to ensure professionalism, protect the organization, and create a positive work environment. Violating these internal guidelines—whether knowingly or out of carelessness—can lead to disciplinary actions or, in more serious cases, termination.

If you're ever unclear on company policies or unsure about specific rules, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with them. If you notice a colleague violating these guidelines, it's important to address the issue before it escalates. Disregarding company policies might seem like a small issue at first, but it can quickly spiral into a larger problem if not handled appropriately.

Claiming Credit for Someone Else’s Work: A Career Killer

Taking credit for others’ hard work is a surefire way to tarnish your reputation and jeopardize your job. Whether it’s presenting a coworker’s idea as your own in a meeting or snatching up the recognition for a successful project that wasn’t yours to begin with, taking credit where it’s not due never ends well.

For example, a colleague who swiped commissions from coworkers while they were on vacation faced serious consequences. While the employees who had done the work were out on break, another worker claimed credit for their sales, ignoring the company's clear policy about crediting the right people. Not only did this hurt team morale, but it also led to swift disciplinary action. Remember, integrity and honesty are critical in the workplace, and taking credit for others’ work shows a lack of both.

Unscheduled Absences and Frequent Tardiness 

While taking sick days when you're genuinely unwell is completely acceptable, there's a fine line when it comes to abusing this privilege. If you find yourself calling in sick on Mondays more often than not, or timing your "illness" just before a long weekend, you might be digging your own grave.

It’s important to recognize that calling in sick too frequently—especially when it's predictable—will make you seem unreliable, even if your excuses are legitimate. For instance, if someone repeatedly takes sick leave around important work events, even if their illness is genuine, it can come across as a lack of commitment. This type of behavior can cause resentment among coworkers and leave a bad impression with your boss. The work piles up on everyone else, and sooner or later, that kind of absenteeism could cost you your position. 

Likewise, frequent tardiness without a valid reason can put a question mark on your job. Employers value employees who are dependable, and if you fail to show up consistently, they’ll likely seek someone who can. When your absences start affecting your performance and team productivity, it’s only a matter of time before your job security starts to slip.

Keeping a Low Profile: The Risks of Staying Invisible

While it's important to focus on your work, staying completely under the radar can hurt you in the long run. If you never speak up in meetings, fail to share your ideas, and don’t make yourself visible to higher-ups, you may find yourself overlooked when promotions or job cuts come around. Hard work and dedication are essential, but they’re not enough on their own.

If you want to make a lasting impression, you need to make your contributions known. Take part in discussions, share your insights, and build relationships with colleagues and supervisors. Your value in the workplace isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about being recognized as an active, engaged member of the team.

Balancing Side Jobs: Quick Way to Lose Credibility 

In today’s world, many people juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet. However, if you’re considering taking on secondary employment, make sure it doesn't interfere with your main job or violate your current employer's policies. Many employers have strict rules regarding outside work, especially if it competes with or undermines the company’s interests.

If you’re unsure whether your side hustle could cause a conflict, the safest option is to ask your employer for permission. Being transparent about any outside work ensures that there’s no confusion and that you're not inadvertently jeopardizing your primary job. Always prioritize open communication with your employer before pursuing additional income streams.

Being Open About Your Job Search at Work

If you’re actively job hunting, it’s best to keep your search discreet. Sending resumes or making job inquiries from your work computer is a risky move, as most companies monitor internet activity. Likewise, assume that your emails and chat messages are being watched. It’s easy to unintentionally alert your current employer to your intentions, which can damage your reputation—or worse, lead to job termination.

 

Engaging in Office Gossip

The workplace is a breeding ground for rumors, and it’s often easy to fall into the trap of gossiping. However, gossip can quickly backfire. You never know who might overhear or who’s involved in the conversation. It’s best to avoid spreading rumors altogether, and steer clear of repeating anything you’ve heard. Getting tangled in the office rumor mill can compromise relationships and trust—and in some cases, cost you your job.

Alienating Your Co-workers

A job is rarely a solo endeavor. The cooperation and goodwill of your colleagues are crucial for your success. If you isolate yourself, refuse to collaborate, or engage in toxic behavior, you risk alienating those you work with. A poor team player can easily be replaced by someone who contributes to a positive and productive environment. Fostering good relationships with coworkers is key to job security.

Romantic Relationships with Your Boss

Workplace romance, especially between a boss and an employee, is a delicate matter. While it might seem like harmless fun, it often results in complications, conflicts of interest, and uncomfortable office dynamics. In most cases, it’s the subordinate who risks their job, especially if the relationship affects their work performance or creates perceptions of favoritism. Keeping personal and professional boundaries clear is crucial.

Spending Excessive Time on Personal Calls

While occasional personal calls are inevitable, using company time for personal matters can quickly become a problem. Spending long periods on the phone handling personal business—whether it’s making appointments, dealing with family issues, or even job hunting—can send a message that you’re not committed to your role. If this behavior becomes habitual, your employer might take it as a sign that you’re not focused on your work and could decide to let you go.

Drinking/Substance Abuse at Workplace

Drinking alcohol during work hours—whether at lunch or on breaks—can lead to poor judgment, loss of focus, and, in extreme cases, physical accidents. It's an easy way to lose credibility and professionalism in the eyes of your employer. Maintaining a clear mind is essential, especially when handling tasks that require attention to detail. Substance abuse at work is one of the fastest ways to find yourself without a job.

Excessive Personal Internet Use

Surfing the web during work hours might seem harmless, but spending too much time on social media, shopping sites, or entertainment platforms can seriously affect your productivity. Not only does this distract you from your tasks, but it also raises a red flag for your employer. Visiting inappropriate websites—such as adult content or irrelevant entertainment—can get you into even more trouble and lead to immediate termination.

Not Double-Checking Your Work

Carelessness with details can be costly, particularly when working with numbers. A small mistake—like entering a wrong figure or miscalculating an important budget—can have major repercussions, potentially putting your job in jeopardy. Always double-check your work before submitting anything. Employers expect accuracy, and one preventable error could signal a lack of attention to detail or competence.

Avoiding Accountability

Taking responsibility for your actions is vital in any professional setting. If you make a mistake, it’s important to own up to it rather than deflecting blame onto others. Attempting to cover up errors or shift responsibility can create distrust and undermine your credibility. Employers value integrity, and those who avoid accountability can quickly lose the trust of their team and their job.

Wrapping Up

If your current role isn’t a good fit and you’re confident you can land something better with ease, it may be best to quietly step away by writing a two-week’s  notice. Leaving without creating a scene allows you to maintain your professional reputation and exit on good terms, preserving valuable connections for the future.

However, if you’re feeling frustrated and want to make an exit that’s more memorable (for all the wrong reasons), now you have a roadmap for how to leave a lasting impact. Just be prepared for the fallout—it’s hard to undo the damage of burning bridges.

On the flip side, if you’re genuinely passionate about your job and want to secure your place for the long haul, this is a perfect opportunity to learn from others' missteps. Understanding the behaviors that could jeopardize your position helps you avoid the pitfalls that could cost you your dream job.