The Intentional Way

So, you are getting laid off, now what?

Generally speaking, the first time people hear they are getting laid-off they either:

1. Knew it was coming and feel sick about it
2. Didn't know it was coming and feel sick about it
3. Kind of thought it was coming and feel excited about it

Now, if you are the lucky few that fit in category #3 then you can go on your merry way (or go ahead, keep reading). If you are either #1, or #2, there is hope. The key thing to keep in mind: you don't have to go it alone these days.

There are many folks who haven't had to look for a job in the last 10-20 years (yay!) but now, don't have any idea where to start (eek). All sound effects aside, the best place to start is in your company while still employed.

Here are 5 key things you can do while you are still employed to make the transition easier.

1. Ask for a recommendation - If you've done good work and have maintained a good relationship then you can ask for a written recommendation without fear. Just make sure you get it before you leave. You can also start a LinkedIn profile and have them note their recommendations there (more on this in an up-coming post). A warm introduction beats a cold one almost every day.
2. Outplacement services - check with your HR team or manager, as more and more companies that are having to lay off their employees are working with firms that help with the placement of the folks who are leaving. It can be anything from resume writing, job interview help, job search strategy and even one on one coaching to get you through the loss of a job (it IS a big deal and it IS ok to ask for help). These services to help get you on the job finding path are often free for the first year so it's best to take advantage now.
3. Know your strengths - know what you are good at or start discovering it now. If you want to keep going with your current career (or even if you want a change) this is a great time to get back in touch with your talents and start highlighting them. One of my favorite is Marcus Buckingham's 'StrengthsFinder'. Knowing how your past career success is connected to your talents can make it easier to translate for a job interview or resume with another company in a different position.
4. Accumulate your accomplishments - not only for the work you did, but personally. The results you got on your projects or during your volunteer position at the board meeting will come in handy to concretely illustrate your skills to future employers. This is also a great ego booster! You have done great work and now's the time to show it off.
5. Build your support system - you don't have to go through this alone. Start by telling those you are close to and trust. Sharing the burden lightens the load. Then as you gain more self-confidence (the lay-off is not a personal attack, but a business decision), begin letting more folks know you are looking for work opportunities. Another thing you can do is to join or start a job search group. It's great to expand the help you need to those folks who are also looking. You can help each other with personal referrals and making warm introductions (and make sure you get out of the house).

I guarantee with the above top 5 things, a known lay-off that's coming your way will be much easier. Just don't procrastinate. The known of the current situation will change and there's no reason for you to not be prepared and feeling a bit more in control. Even if you can't control the economy.

So, you are getting laid off… now give yourself a break and get going.

-Sylvia