While being sacked is a real fear for many, over one in 10 (11.1%) care professionals admit that they’ve been fired from a previous role, with almost two thirds (60%) stating that they didn’t even see it coming. That’s according to new research from the UK’s leading independent job board, CV-Library.

The survey of 1,100 workers aimed to find out how many care professionals have been dismissed from work and the reasons behind this. Interestingly, over one in 10 (15.6%) confessed that they have had to fire someone in the past.

With this in mind, when asked about the top signs that someone is about to be fired, care professionals cited the following:

1. Raised concerns around performance – 77.8%
2. Receiving a formal disciplinary – 62.2%
3. Recently making a big mistake at work – 60%
4. Shifts have been reduced – 24.4%
5. Workload being reduced – 22.2%
6. Upsetting a manager and/or co-worker(s) – 20%
7. Being avoided by managers – 15.6%
8. Hearing rumours from colleagues – 17.8%
9. Senior staff having lots of meetings – 17.8%
10. Manager is training up colleagues – 6.7%

Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library comments on the findings: “If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s best to not panic right away. Just because your colleagues are having extra training, or managers are having regular meetings, it doesn’t mean that you’re about to get fired. Perhaps your colleague just needed more support! That said, a formal disciplinary or concerns being raised about your performance is a sure fire sign that you need to make a change. Take this seriously or you might risk losing your job.”

Are you worried you’re about to be fired? CV-Library shares its top tips with care professionals, for addressing the problem and getting back on track:

• Think about your performance: Are there any areas you could improve on? By developing your skills, you can excel any areas you may be underperforming in.
• Be clear on your rights: There’s certain boxes employers must tick before they can fire someone, so read up online to get a better understanding of your rights.
• Arrange a meeting with your manager: Explain why you’re concerned about your job and be sure to come armed with examples of how you contribute towards the team.
• Set up a meeting with HR: They’ll be clued up on the situation and are able to offer advice or intervene if you feel you’re facing unfair dismissal.
• Prepare for the worst case scenario: While it’s difficult to think about, if you’re not right for the role it could be time to update your CV and browse other opportunities in the industry.

Biggins concludes: “If you’re concerned about your job, it’s best to speak with your manager or the HR department. They’ll be able to help you identify if there really is a problem and advise you on how to resolve it. What’s more, if you feel you’ve been dismissed unfairly, remember that you have rights, so seek legal help where necessary.”