I have heard from many people who are forced to cope with a constant threat of losing their jobs. Some of them work for companies that downsized employees in the recent past. Others are simply aware of the changing corporate climate and wonder about the stability of their organizations and positions.
From what I can tell, these are good workers, hard workers. Many of them have given 10 or more years to their employers, and a lot of them manage their bills from paycheck to paycheck. All of them deserve to feel secure in their jobs.
We can’t see into the future, but with a little bit of planning it will be much easier to avoid the deer-in-the-headlights reaction that strikes many professionals dealing with layoffs. Panicking won’t help you feel more confident about your company. In fact, this particular emotion is counterproductive to your career and your well-being. The sooner you adopt a steady, organized approach to your job situation, the better. Here are a few tips that may help:
Learn about your company. If your employer is in the process of conducting a series of layoffs, or has downsized personnel in the past, find out as much information as you can about the course of action. How were your co-workers told about the circumstances? How much notice did they receive? Did your organization offer severance packages or other benefits for departing staff members?
Look into special programs that your company implemented to ease the burden on employees. For example, some businesses hire outside consultants to assist with resume writing, setting new career goals and planning for the future. Take advantage of their expertise and support.
Prepare in advance. One of the top concerns after a job loss is the ability to make ends meet until you find a new position. If you find yourself worrying about finances, do everything you can to prepare yourself and your family before a layoff occurs.
Get financial support or advice, if you need it. Try to minimize expenses and start an emergency fund. At the same time, contact the state unemployment office to learn what it takes to apply for benefits. You may be surprised by how easy it is (you can apply online).
Be a proactive job hunter. Now is a great time to search for a job, while you are still working. Why? Because generally speaking, you’ll make more informed decisions. Present yourself with more self-assurance and avoid the subject of recent job loss in an interview. Update your resume, write a terrific cover letter and start researching the job market for new opportunities. Make your career a priority.
Hopefully you will never have to deal with a layoff. But just in case you do, it will be less difficult on you and your family if you have prepared yourself in advance.
Keep your eyes and ears open for changes in the business culture. Pay attention to what you find, but don’t panic. Take a deep breath and then move forward one step at a time. Learn about your company. Organize your finances. Dive in to your job search, because nothing eliminates the fear of attrition like a new, more stable job.
Send your job search questions to eve.getajob@gmail.com.
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