It hits like a ton of bricks. Until you or someone close to you has been let go from their job you can’t describe the feelings or the pain it causes. It is a huge blow particularly to your ego and it is scary. Most people will experience this at least once in their career and the older you get or the longer you were with the company, the harder it hits you.
1. Don’t take it personally and drive on. This is the most difficult one. How can your company firing you and putting your family into turmoil be anything else than personal? You must not take it personally because often these decisions are financial and are decided on a spreadsheet. It is also important to know if the fit wasn’t right for them – it probably wasn’t the right fit for you either. Focus on finding the right fit.
2. Immediately prepare a job search strategy and focus on landing on your feet. Don’t wait, the longer you are out of work, the harder it is to rebound and your confidence can erode. Your strategy must incorporate your wants, likes and dreams and you must plan for your next step.
3. The hard work begins: Network. Make sure you reconnect with all of your contacts no one can help you if they don’t know what you need. Speak to everyone that you know and tell him or her what you are looking for. Do not expect people to help you without you nudging them on. People are busy so you need to be clear and concise on how they can assist you.
4. Be prepared and remember that finding a job is a full time job. Get out of your PJ’s, and market yourself as you would any product or service. Get connected on LinkedIn, professional groups, and any other networking. Have a fantastic Search Optimized resume, professional cover letter and a perfectly pressed suit ready and be diligent. Remember that in this current economy it can take 3-6 months for a mid level position and much longer for more senior candidates.
5. Nurture yourself and your loved ones. Take time after your job search hours to have fun and regroup. Remember that this too shall pass and you will find work again. Even if you have to take a step back or a contract you will be gainfully employed so make sure that you recalibrate during this time.
Although the experience is a painful one, it can be the best thing that has ever happened to you and can change your life for the better. Put this down to experience and learn to always keep your resume and your networks up so if this ever happens again you are ready and armed. Use this pause in your career to find the right fit for you, a position that excites you and where your skills are appreciated and don’t look back. Recalibrating in your career can be a positive change in your life so embrace the change and move on.
