An excellent article by my friend and colleague, Gina Studer, CCMC.

I’ve been laid off twice in my career, and it’s not a fun experience. Your mind can play tricks on you.  You may question your worth or feel like you have nothing to offer. This is untrue.  Layoff decisions are driven by an organization's bottom line: cost savings. Your experiences, education, and qualities make you a worthy candidate. Getting “let go” from an employer doesn’t change this fact.

Here are some best practices to consider if you've been recently laid off or if you fear that layoffs may happen to you in the future.

For those recently laid off…

1.   Embrace the uncertainty. 

Two of my best professional experiences resulted after layoffs, and I probably wouldn’t have pursued these otherwise. Take time to reflect. Assess your skills, strengths, interests, and values. Stay open to possibilities, and be intentional about your next career path. 

2.   Ask for help. 

Join a support group. Some career groups are affiliated with a church or a non-profit organization while other groups can be found online. If you want one-on-one assistance, hire a career coach.  I did after my first layoff. You’ll gain clarity, confidence, and take action steps to keep you moving forward. You can also ask a trusted mentor, colleague or friend to hold you accountable. Lean on your network – they are your most valuable asset! 

3.   Consider a bridge job. 

Being out of work can be stressful especially if your financial runway isn’t that long. Consider taking a bridge job (temporary) to help you pay your bills while you look for a better role that's more aligned with what you want.

4.   Be open to the career transition process. 

Career transition brings ups and downs. It can be a roller coaster of emotions. Trust in the process. Even baby steps are steps. If you are taking actions to move you closer to your goals, you will reach them. Remember to practice self-compassion and celebrate small wins!

For those who fear a layoff in the future…

1.   You are in control of your career.

Some of us are loyal to a fault. It doesn’t hurt to interview. It’s important to know your market value and your options if something changes with your current employer. Plus, you’ll make valuable connections and learn a lot from the process. You’ll also improve your interviewing skills, so that they’ll be sharp when you do make a change. 

2.   Network for life.  

Often, we reach out to our network ONLY when we need a job. Networking should be a consistent practice throughout your professional life. Also, be a giver and not just a taker. If you’re asking for a recommendation on LinkedIn, offer to give one as well. If you come across a job description that’s not right for you, share with someone else who it might be.    

3.   Research organizations of interest.

Be proactive about future opportunities. If you think that a layoff is coming, research organizations and businesses for whom you would want to work, ones that align with your values, and ones you find interesting. If something happens, you’ll already know where to look for job opportunities that you do want to pursue.

4.   Do your best work until the end.  

Even if you’re a short timer, do your job to the best of your ability. It’s important to maintain work relationships. You may need a recommendation for your next role. Likewise, you may be in a position to help a former co-worker in the future. Stay positive and be professional always.  

If you are currently in the midst of or fear a layoff, I’m here to help! Take the first step and visit https://bit.ly/3t3m8Lm to book a complimentary, 30-minute consultation.