The news of a mass job layoff can devastate any organization and its employees. Unfortunately, job releases are becoming increasingly common in today’s difficult economic environment. Suppose you’re one of the unfortunate victims of corporate downsizing or simply facing an uncertain future because your company is at risk for a potential layoff. In that case, there are some steps you can take to survive this difficult situation and even come out better on the other side.
First, focus on remaining calm during this stressful time; it will help keep your mind clear so you can make rational decisions about what to do next. At the same time, however, take action. Start looking for another job right away so that if worst comes to worst and your position gets eliminated, you already have something else lined up to reduce financial strain from being without income during an extended period of unemployment.
Take advantage of available resources such as career counseling services offered by universities or local community organizations, which assist with resume writing, interview preparation techniques, and other professional development resources needed to land new positions quickly. Also, set up informational interviews with people who work in similar industries. These conversations may take time to lead to job offers, but they can give you a lot of information about what companies are looking for in new hires. This can help people who have been laid off stay up-to-date on developments in their fields of expertise while also expanding their networks of industry contacts.
Networking is also important when dealing with possible layoffs because former coworkers, colleagues, friends, and acquaintances may know employers willing to consider applications from people who have been laid off because of corporate restructuring. This allows them to skip the traditional application process and quickly get back into the workforce after being fired from their first job, with less stress and anxiety than when searching for open positions.
Lastly, keep a positive attitude throughout the process, even if things look bad. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, helpless, and depressed after losing a steady job. But do your best to keep moving toward your goal and get a new job sooner rather than later. Face challenges head-on and uses the experience to help yourself professionally and personally in the long run.
