Career
Pathways
How to survive a layoff
Layoffs have been looming on the corporate horizon for a while now and nothing is as dreaded as that pink slip declaring your eviction. Despite the ever-present threat, many of us refuse to acknowledge it and devoid our selves from the precious time to prepare from this unfortunate transition.
So the first thing you need to do is accept. Denial will get you nowhere but in trouble. After you have been laid off, you need to accept that such things happen even when you don’t deserve it. A layoff during recession doesn’t you are incompetent or redundant, it is the financial crunch doing it and you have no share in blame.
Once you accept the reality, you will be tempted to curse your employer to death-don’t even think about. Firstly, he didn’t have a choice in the matter. When revenues are slumping, you don’t have many alternative ways. Secondly, he is a resource you might need in future-be it in terms reference or re-employment. Don’t burn this precious bridge but being bitter.
You don’t need to start from scratch in terms of career but might need to revamp a few basic things, like resume. Add your experience and acquired skills to your resume and customize it before sending it out to any potential employer. Also, don’t be hesitant in trying out new professions. On an average, a person works with three different careers in his life, so if there are new but different opportunities available, benefit from them. Furthermore, if you need to go back to school or train yourself, this is the best time to do it.
Amend your spending habits immediately. Your severance pay is not for you to indulge in or bear your retail therapy costs. Use it wisely and cut down all extra expenses.
Exploit the power of networking. Old friends, colleagues, etc will be valuable as they can pass on the inside news about hiring and recruitment in their or other companies. Get in touch with them and let them know that you’re looking for a job.
Lastly, persistency is a must for opportunities are limited and competition is fierce.
