Preparing for, recovering from job loss
- col-dan-shortridge
- November 14, 2022
- 408
If you’ve been laid off or lost your job, you’re not alone. More than 16 million Americans find themselves out of work for that reason each year, according to federal data.
Sometimes a termination comes as a complete surprise. Sometimes workers are prewarned through a performance improvement plan. Sometimes a company shuts down an entire division with no notice.
Just remember: You will bounce back, and the right opportunity is out there for you.
How to get ready
If there’s even a rumor your job might be eliminated, do these things right now:
—Back up your vital information. Don’t store anything personal on your work computer or phone. Keep your evaluations, contacts and notes on your accomplishments in a personal cloud or at your home. Don’t use your work email or cell for any social media. Your employer could cut your access off at any time.
—Assess your finances. Determine how much of a runway you have to live on. Evaluate and track your expenses. Bulk up your savings whenever possible. Learn your company’s policy on PTO payouts. Remember severance is never guaranteed.
—Use your benefits. Take your sick time and vacation time. Get those medical checkups and new eyeglass visits now. Ask your doctor for extended prescriptions. Contact your employee assistance program or EAP for any legal or financial issues you’ve been putting off.
—Keep your stuff together. If you work in person, keep your personal items minimal and tidy. Make sure they fit in a single box. Don’t keep any personal information at work. Remember someone else could be sent to clear out your desk.
How to recover
Being laid off can hit like a punch to the gut. It’s terrifying and humiliating; you will be scared and angry. Just follow these steps to create a path:
—Take a breather. Go for a walk, meditate, work a puzzle or do whatever you need to calm your mind and put yourself in a positive framework. This is a crazy time, and your emotions will be high, but you have to be in control of them to move forward.
—Apply for unemployment. There is no shame in drawing unemployment; it’s there for exactly these circumstances. Even a little bit will help.
—Do some deep thinking. If you had left voluntarily, what would your next move be? What type of employer do you want to work for? What type of job makes you satisfied? If you want to change careers, what skills will you need to add?
—Develop and define your career story. Your resume and cover letter are your best marketing tools. They should be oriented toward results and accomplishments rather than just a list of duties and responsibilities.
—Use your network. Tell your circle you’re looking for a new job and be specific about what you’re seeking. The best help may come from the most unlikely sources.
Remember there is no shame in losing a job. Keep moving forward every day and maintain momentum, and you’ll find eventual success.
Career Stories columnist Dan Shortridge is a nationally certified resume writer, marketing consultant and author. Contact him and submit questions for future columns at resultsresumes.org.