It happened. You were laid off. Whether you were anticipating the layoff or you were blindsided, a layoff can feel like a punch in the gut. Throughout the years, I've worked with many clients who have joined the ranks of the unemployed, and while nobody wants to become a victim of company downsizing, it can happen.
Here are some suggestions which may help, if you find yourself unemployed:
Recognize the grief stages of a job loss. Much like the loss of a loved one, when experiencing a job loss, most people go through stages of grief (shock, denial, anger, acceptance, etc.). Take time to process these emotions by talking to others. Local job loss groups or online job loss groups can be a great resource.
Take time to reflect upon your career. Have you ever thought you would like to do something else? A layoff provides the perfect opportunity to change careers. What type of skills/experience are needed for this career? Sometimes a person's transferable skills can easily bridge them to the new career. Maybe you've thought about self-employment? Now might be a good time to explore that option.
Remove negative feelings toward a former boss or company. Even though you may be angry and hurt, your boss and former coworkers may be valuable contacts for you in the future. Reach out and get a letter of recommendation. Comments from the letter can be used as testimonials in a resume or in a cover letter.
Treat your job search like a job. When you get up in the morning, follow the same routine as you did when you were employed. Eat breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth. Make a list of everything you want to accomplish for the day. For example, view the "career opportunity" page on company websites, read a career-related article, post on LinkedIn, etc., email, text or call a friend or past colleague.
Utilize your network. When you are in your job search, utilize as many methods as possible for finding a job (Indeed, Company websites, recruiters, etc.). But, don't forget the number one way for find a job is through networking. Contact family members, friends, neighbors, business colleagues, past bosses, college friends, and don't forget to utilize social media sites such as LinkedIn or Facebook.
Utilize a job search partner. Do you know anyone else who is unemployed? Make an appointment to meet with them weekly (online or in person). Utilize this opportunity to discuss your job searches, what's working, what's not, and simply bounce ideas off of one another.
Don't forget self-care. Exercise, get a good night's sleep, watch a good movie, listen to music, have coffee with friends. Whatever boosts your mood, it's important to take good care of yourself.
Consider a side hustle for extra income as you are job searching. Side hustles are not only a great option when you need extra money, but they can be a great source for an extra revenue stream which you can use to save money. There are many options for side hustles. Here are just a few: Be a driver for Uber, Instacart, etc., before or after-school childcare, cleaning, yardwork, utilizing your skills for a service (repairing items, baking), seasonal jobs, teaching music lessons, tutoring, or buying and fixing items to resell. A YouTube channel called "Under the Median" posted a a very informative video entitled, "How to Find a Side Gig and Earn More Money." I encourage you to watch this video, and hopefully it will spark some ideas and strategies for side hustles.
As the saying goes, "When one door closes, another door opens." Keep your chin up. You will land on your feet!
Image by Marin at freedigitalphotos.net
Comentários