9 Things To Do After A Layoff

The days after a layoff are difficult. Take time to grieve, yell and cry. Once you've let out some of your emotions it's time to set the right wheels in motion.

Whether you saw it coming or not, a layoff plain old stinks! Shock, anger, frustration, and other emotions are normal, so be ready to work through them.

The key to securing your next job after a layoff is to get yourself moving forward with a clear plan of action. You'll also need a strong communication plan. These nine tips will help get you on the right track for a productive job search!

1. Talk To Your Family

Have an open discussion with your family, including your children, and explain the facts about what has transpired and how this will impact everyone. (You will help set an example of how to deal with adversity.)

Ask your family for their help and support over the upcoming months and maintain open lines of communication about what is going on with your search.

The fear and anxiety you are experiencing is normal and your family feels it too! When you talk openly and honestly about your job search, you help everyone understand their role and the progress you are making.

2. Build Lists

Creating lists may not be your preferred style, but do it anyway. You will need to refer to these lists to keep on track and motivated.

• Make a list of 100 people you know well. (Friends, family, neighbors, etc.)
• Create a list of 25 accomplishment stories (learn more here) These stories will help you identify transferrable skills and things you are successful doing.
• List 50 companies you would like to work for or who could potentially hire you for the work you want to do. (Note: This list may take time to build and can change over time).
• List job titles or occupations you think would be a good next fit. (If you aren't sure, ask people you trust for confirmation or suggestions.)
• Inventory the skills you enjoy using most and work environments you thrive in.

3. Take Action

Reach out to the 100 people on your list with a positive tone and request AIR (advice, information and recommendations). These people care about you and will be a good first step in your journey.

Please do not say “help me I am looking for a job!” Instead, learn how to network without a resume.

4. Cut Unnecessary Expenses Immediately

Your family can help eliminate unnecessary spending. Ask each family member what they will do to reduce their expenditures.

Another way to cut your expenses is to evaluate other health insurance options. Your employer will offer the option to continue your health insurance at your cost, also known as COBRA. This is extremely expensive and will drain savings quickly. Begin investigating other health insurance options immediately by talking to colleagues, business owners, and anyone who is unemployed to learn what health insurance options they are using.

Your frugality now will enable you to endure the long job search process.

5. Create A Weekly Plan

You want time to recuperate from the shock of being laid off, but often the best way to overcome this is by setting a daily agenda. Create a new routine similar to your work schedule. Set your alarm, take a shower and get your day started. I know this sounds silly, but it does help!

More importantly, have specific actions identified during your day. This should include networking events, meeting with past colleagues, occasionally volunteering, investing in your professional development through formal or informal learning opportunities, and an hour or two of “you” time when you can indulge in your favorite pastime. This is what your calendar could/should look like:

One last reminder- do not spend all your time behind the computer! Get out of your house and meet people! Your weekly and daily job search plan should consist of outreach efforts ranging from networking requests to talking with recruiting agencies. A scant few actually find their jobs through online ads.

6. Learn To Say No

It’s not unusual after a layoff for family and friends to begin calling on you for your help once they find out you are no longer working. However, your new full-time job is looking for a job. Learn to decline requests which would take away from your search.

Just say no to the “honey-do” list and delegated household chores. Fulfilling these duties may provide a feeling of accomplishment in the short-term, however, when you procrastinate on your job search efforts, you will extend the time you are unemployed, and no one wants to be in that position.

7. Don't Job Search Alone

Being unemployed is a blow to your identity and you feel alone and isolated. This doesn't help your self-esteem or self-confidence. Find someone who can provide tough love and a fresh perspective during your job search. Ideally, this is not a friend or family member. They may be too concerned about you to help with your search. Find a colleague who was also laid off or find a networking group for unemployed job seekers. You can google "job seeker networking groups near me" or attend one virtually.

8. Invest Time In Yourself

Taking care of yourself mentally, physically and spiritually is important. Make time to do things you enjoy. This could be volunteering, sports, meditation, or any hobby that brings you happiness. You should also invest time in developing your skills. Enroll in an online class or sign up for a course at a local college. This can help make you more marketable in the workplace and give you something to discuss during job interviews.

9. It’s A Marathon, Not A Sprint

Inevitably, your job search will take longer than you want. Incorporate a healthy balance: exercise, eat right, get enough sleep, and remember, everything in moderation.

Looking for a new job is a lot of work. It will also take learning new things. Here are some more articles to help get you up the curve.

MORE HELP TO GET YOU STARTED

6 Steps to Managing Your Job Search

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