Layoffs are increasing
You may have suspected it was coming, or it may have been a complete surprise, but when you’re laid off or released, for whatever reason, it’s extremely stressful. Your first reaction may be anger, frustration, shock, or surprise, but you need to quickly focus on getting your next position.
Remember that you’re not alone, huge tech layoffs are in the news now, with the Federal Reserve and others predicting rising unemployment – as high as 4.5% or more. But there are also statistics regarding the millions of open positions, although they might not be in your area of experience and expertise.
Tell everyone, but be subtle
Don’t post a big paragraph on LinkedIn or other Social Media, like your own personal Job Wanted advertisement!
Some immediate possible steps
Unemployment benefits? We are NOT attorneys and cannot provide legal advice, but you may want to explore your options. You might think that you’ll get a new job quickly and won’t need this benefit, or you may be hesitant or embarrassed to sign up. Or you may be receiving a severance benefit. You’re not alone, you’re not the only one, so talk with a professional advisor and explore your options ― just don’t delay.
Outplacement? Many organizations provide outplacement services. Although the people you meet are also job-seekers, take advantage. It may not be a direct route to a new position, but there’s an opportunity to learn from the experience and make new connections for your Network.
Volunteering? There always seems to be a shortage of volunteers. Take some time to use your expertise to help others; or volunteer for something new, something you never suspected you might do. It will give you a mental break from the stress and make a positive contribution to someone else’s life.
Additional Education? Do you still have a few credits required for your degree? Does your professional organization have certification programs you have not been able to complete? Your extra effort can be an important part of your networking process and will reflect well during your meetings with Hiring Managers. In addition, either or both of these will be valuable in your career long after you’ve obtained your new position.
Part time job? Again, this will give you a break from your search, and it’ll get you out of your house/apartment for a few hours a week. We’re not financial advisors, either, so you should explore the financial pros and cons, especially if you’re signing up for unemployment.
THE BEST WAY TO FIND YOUR NEW JOB!
Your Professional Network
A strong theme for us at The Resume Constructor is your Professional Network. This is your community of professionals with whom you have a common interest and career. It may be an informal group you’ve built over time. Or it could be membership in a professional organization, whose meetings you regularly attend. You may even volunteer for projects or be a member of the leadership board.
This is the time to let people know that you’re in active search mode. Be prepared to clearly and briefly describe what type of role you’re seeking, and ask what people in their network might answer questions for you. Someone you know might be aware of an opening and be able to give you a referral. Follow up quickly and, regardless of the result, be sure to thank them and let them know how it went.
Be careful!
DO NOT ask for job leads. DO NOT ask for a job. It is not their responsibility to find one for you. Your mission is to meet more people with whom you can have a conversion and make inquiries about their career and organization.
There’s a lot more to discuss on this topic, so give us a call if you have questions.
Your personal network
For many of us, our career is an important part of our life, and temporarily losing that anchor can be stressful and potentially embarrassing.
In my company, years ago, one of our team members lost his position, and we later learned that he left his home every morning at his usual time and had not even told his significant other!
You’re not the only one (remember the tech companies?), so don’t hide! Don’t post a sign in front of your house, but DO bring it up appropriately in conversation. If they ask, be prepared to clearly and succinctly describe the type of position that would interest you (your elevator speech). Don’t ask for job leads, don’t ask for a job. But you can ask who might be able to give you some advice or answer questions about their career.
Someone you know, and who knows you well, may be able to answer questions about their career, or have an opening in their organization, or be able to lead you to someone who does.
o Someone in your religious organization?
o A member of your sports group?
o Your neighbor next door?
We had a client who quickly found her ideal job. She had talked about her situation and objective (her elevator speech) with her Chiropractor who introduced her to another patient who was looking to fill that position!
Start now, before it’s too late
It’s easy to procrastinate. Job, family, hobbies, etc. all require our time. Building and maintaining a Professional Network takes more time. But immediate rewards come from socializing with people who share your career and career interests ‒ from maintaining professional certifications, remaining current in your profession’s best practices, and being able to give back when someone needs your ideas and experience.
Long term, your network may help you one day when you’re planning on a position change, or you’re suddenly forced to do so.
We’re here to help
Our team is passionate about our work, and we’re always interested in expanding our Professional Network. If you have any questions about Networking, or any other aspect of the job-search, call us at 774-612-3104 for a no-commitment introductory conversation. Or visit us at TheResumeConstructor.com to learn more.