So You’ve Been Laid Off… Now What?

Many of us have faced it before. We’ve gotten up every morning for the last few years to help push the company vision forward. We were full vested into making everything work. We’ve experienced growth and development opportunities that’s helped us both personally and professionally. And yes, some of us loved coming to work… Then it happens. We’re all pulled into a meeting and given a package that details our abrupt exit due to company re-structuring, the market slowing,etc.

Companies across the globe are experiencing changes like this. I guarantee no one likes to be on the receiving end of the sad news, however, once the shock of it all has settled – what you do after receiving the news matters. What will be your response? Here I will offer some simple things one can do to not only remain productive after a layoff or termination, but can truly help you remain prepared for the next opportunity. 

1. Don’t sleep in… It’s easy to do! You’ve gotten up extra early to ensure you can bear the commute and make it to work on time. Don’t stop. There are plenty of things you can do at home that can keep you productive such as:

• Update your resume – You’re worth searching for. People are looking for you to help them succeed. Be ready for the call and don’t become stagnate in your search. Wake up early, shower, brush your teeth, and go hunting!
• Get up and exercise – This is critical. You’ll find that this habit will often continue even after you’ve started that next job. Studies have shown that exercising prior to beginning your work day can greatly increase cognitive function, boosts your metabolism, and just makes you feel good.

2. Brush up on those interviewing skills… I believe that preparation precedes performance. LinkedIn has tons of tips from HR professionals and business leaders regarding top interviewing questions and how best to respond. Take time and examine yourself. How well will you respond to questions about you? There’s always an opportunity to improve on these skills.

3. Read… You can take time to read books and articles that pertain to your career. This not only keeps you in the loop regarding current trends, but also provides you with a great opportunity to improve your skill sets. Remember, reading is not only fundamental, but funds the mental. Go and grow!

4. Career Change? Something to consider… Take an inventory on your career. Is it time for a change? Layoffs can bring an opportunity to update your resume and shift your focus into something you may enjoy more. There’s always time for a shift. Don’t be scared! Go for it.

5. Hakuna Matata… Yep! I believe worry brings fear, anxiety, frustration, and other emotions that will keep you from moving forward and remaining aggressive toward the pursuit of a new job or career. So STOP worrying!!! I prefer looking at things from the perspective that people WANT me to work for them. I’m interviewing them for the next job. We’ll both benefit from it. That positive change in your mentality can help you land that next job. It also keeps your emotions in tact while creating a positive atmosphere for those around you. Yes there’s plenty of opportunity to be sad or angry – but choose the positive approach. The change in perspective will help.

These are just a few suggestions. Have you faced a layoff before? Aside from how you reacted, what did you do to help prepare you for the next opportunity? Let’s help each other. Go!