Losing your job due to a lay off can be a complicated life experience. A small percentage of people in this situation have the foresight and fortuitous timing to have a new job ready and waiting — good for them. But for most, dealing with this unexpected bump in a career path will play a major role in determining future happiness.
Most of us take a lot of our identity from our work. Invariably upon meeting someone, one of the first questions asked is, “So what do you do?” The question is so common that “for a living” is implied. When your employer terminates your employment, you face not only the loss of a regular paycheck and much of your social circle, but also a good portion of your sense of self worth.
What is the best way to react to being excessed, workforce reduced, downsized, rightsized, or whatever term is currently in vogue? First and foremost, stay positive. It is highly possible that what looks like adversity will ultimately prove to be a blessing in disguise. Reactions such as, “I’ll never get another job as good” or “this is the worst thing that ever happened to me” can quickly become self-fulfilling prophecies. An optimistic and confident attitude will serve you much better in contacts with potential employers.
Once the dust settles and the shock wears off, how do you really feel about the job you just held — is that what you want to do again? Rather than automatically trying to find a new position exactly like the one you just left, take a hard look and evaluate its pros and cons. Did you enjoy your work, or was the start of a new work week something that you dreaded? Perhaps you have always wanted to try another occupation, but circumstances led you in a different direction. Consider whether this might be the time to seriously pursue that dream job. The correct answer varies depending on your financial situation, age, experience, education, and talents, but see this change as an opportunity for a fresh start. If it is not a feasible goal in the short term, then formulate a plan for acquiring the training or credentials needed to make it a future reality.
In difficult economic times, it may be wise to broaden the range of vocations that you would consider when seeking employment. Temporarily working at a job that pays a sizable percentage of your previous income while allowing the flexibility to pursue other opportunities lessens your financial burdens and lengthens the amount of time for finding permanent employment.
Manage your personal finances conservatively. Reducing and deferring expenditures stretches your savings and reduces pressure on your household during what is by nature a stressful time.
If early attempts at securing a new job are unsuccessful, do not get discouraged. Remember that you have been hired in the past, and you have since gained more professional and life experiences. One hundred rejections can be offset by one employment offer. Persistence in your pursuit tilts the odds in your favor.
Utilize all of your networks — friends, family, past colleagues. Don’t be shy about telling acquaintances what type of positions you are seeking and asking them to keep you in mind. Many eyes and ears expands your employment horizons and can bring job referrals that you would miss on your own.
In addition, seek new circles of friends while your job hunt is ongoing. Volunteer work or a part-time job are good ways to make new contacts, add purpose to your life, and pad your resume at the same time.
Despite the uncertainty, enjoy this break from the regular grind of work. Catch up on projects around the home, begin a new hobby, or visit friends that you haven’t seen in a while. All too quickly, you’ll be back at work and struggling to find enough free time.
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