A remedy for career hiccups
Getting laid off can be a traumatic experience. You’ll go through several levels of emotion – first shock, anger and then fear of where you go from here. For some people fear of the unknown can be unbearable. Allow yourself to go through these emotions. Take time to grieve for a few days -- it is natural and the first step in the healing process. But, don’t stay there for long.
Here are a few tips I hope will help get you through this hiccup…because that’s all it is, a hiccup.
- Don’t take it personally. Understand this was a business decision and not a personal decision. It’s not fair to blame the ones who still have their jobs. Trust me, they may have it a bit worse, having to over-compensate for the downsizing, working longer hours and stressed they may be next.
- Apply for unemployment benefits. Even if you receive a severance package, apply ASAP. Get the paperwork rolling so when you’re ready to tap into that resource, you’re already in the system. Some states have an online application process so you can apply from the privacy of your home. Who knows, maybe you wont need it.
- Create a plan. Identify the types of jobs you seek. Make a list of companies to target. Ask your friends if they have connections at those companies. Most companies have referral bonus programs, so use your friends and acquaintances to help get your resume in front of hiring managers.
- Update your resume. I recommend using a professional resume service. Most of these services offer career guidance. They are experts at helping identify key aspects of your career and help guide you to your next opportunity.
- If you’re offered outplacement services, use them. These services offer career consultation, interview tips, support and encouragement. Don’t underestimate how difficult the interview process can be, especially if you haven’t interviewed in a while. Take advantage of these resources. I tip my hat to companies who offer this service to those affected by downsizing.
- Network. If you don’t have a Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn profile--take the time to create one NOW. Social networks are going to be the best and most effective way to spread the word about your job search. This is the time to connect with old acquaintances, collect references from former supervisors, get LinkedIN recommendations - don’t be shy.
- Take ownership of your situation and accept this change. You are now the boss of you. Own your job search and drive it to your next job.
- Consider doing some pro bono work. Volunteer to work on projects that will increase your skills or keep them current. This approach might also land you your next job.
- This is not vacation. Keep your work schedule as always. Your new job is your job search, so don’t be late to work.
- Don’t isolate yourself. Go hang out at a coffee shop that offers free wi-fi and apply for jobs online. Have lunch with friends. Get out!
- Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Make time for fun, volunteer for your favorite charity or spend some time on your hobbies. You deserve it.
Being unemployed can be scary, but you’re not alone. This is the time for all of us to lend a helping hand and share ideas and strategies. If you were recently laid off, what strategy did you implement to find your next job? Tell us about your success story and how you landed your new job. We would love to hear from you.
We'll have a podcast posted within the week with more details and conversation on this very subject, so stay tuned!
As always, Mary-Margaret Network is here to help with your job search. Contact our staff for information regarding our resume services and don’t forget to check the Mary-Margaret Network Job Board for a list of job openings. Take advantage of our network. Contact me if you need help.
Norma Crippen is vice president of executive recruiting and client services at Mary-Margaret Network. Her 20-year career in recruiting spans games and high tech. She spent several years at legendary game developer Origin Systems. She may be reached at norma@mary-margaret.com