Though we’ve become used to the unexpected, our economy never fails to surprise us. Right now, inflation is still high but easing a bit, interest rates are up but holding steady, new record highs for credit card debt are set each day, but we also continue to spend at an all-time high. Similar to us, as individuals, businesses are adjusting to a new normal as well – there’s still a worker shortage but there’s been an unusually high number of companies who are resizing/right-sizing and reducing their staff by significant numbers. Tis the season for LAYOFFS!
There’s no nice way to say it…Layoffs Suck! When it happens, we panic and default into survival mode. No matter the circumstances we can feel scared and alone! I wish I could stop layoffs from happening. But, at the very least, if you’ve been laid off or think it’s coming, I want to offer a few tips and advice to make it from wherever you are now to your next job!
1. Always be prepared:
These days LinkedIn is the most powerful networking and job search tool there is. Having an up-to-date LinkedIn profile with a professional profile photo, a catchy headline, an intriguing “about” section that tells the story of you, professional experiences with accomplishments (not job duties), and updated education, licenses and certifications will help to get the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. In addition to having a good LinkedIn profile, get yourself noticed by interacting on LinkedIn; add connections, message your connections, comment on posts and articles, and follow companies that interest you.
2. Manage your emotions:
Pause and take some time to sit in that emotion. Be mad with what is happening / has happened. And then get past it. Start by creating balance between personal and career-related activities; try exercising and nurturing important relationships for your health and mental well-being. Then establish a plan; create some goals and deadlines for your next steps. Doing this helps to give you a sense of accomplishment and control, which combats negative emotions.
3. Establish a routine for your job search:
A routine helps to proactively manage your transition and keeps you on task, but keep in mind that your job search is not 24/7. So treat your job search, like a job; structure your day like your work day to keep a similar routine as your work day and get a sense of accomplishment – schedule time to look for new openings, work on re-building your resume, network, join a job search club, and also take breaks, take a lunch, take a walk, or maybe do some free e-learning.
4. You are not your job:
Yes, it’s nice to be associated with a well-known company with a fancy title, but your self-worth isn’t defined by a nice-sounding job. It’s defined by your values, what motivates you, and what happens after the “9-to-5”. Your true friends and family don’t care about what kind of job you have or how much you make. All they care about is your happiness. So, treat yourself as you would want your friends to treat you. If you think you’re going to be laid off, or already have been, take some time to reconnect with your personal values, your work motivators, and what some of your greatest moments were at work.
Losing your job is hard. It feels personal; like your company is saying they can manage without you. While it’s natural to feel this way, you mustn’t lose perspective. Think about this as an opportunity to get a fresh start and make some positive change in your career. If you’re smart about your next steps, it can lead you to a more fulfilling and rewarding career where you land next.