Facing a layoff can be an overwhelming and emotional experience, but it’s crucial to approach the situation strategically. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a layoff to navigate the transition effectively:
1. Reconfigure Your Mindset:
- Shift from Blame to Reality: Understand that a layoff is not a reflection of your skills but often a result of external factors affecting the company’s operations.
- Focus on Well-being: Take time for self-care activities, whether it’s yoga, meditation, or engaging in hobbies. A positive mindset is essential for a successful job search.
2. Document Your Accomplishments:
- Use CARL or STAR(T) Methods: Reflect on your accomplishments using the Context, Action, Result, Learning (CARL) or Situation, Task, Action, Result + Takeaways (STAR(T)) methods.
- Prepare for Interviews: Having a list of accomplishments helps you respond effectively to behavioral interview questions about your achievements.
3. Define Your Job Preferences:
- Identify Your Values: Determine what you want in your next job, considering factors like company size, role, career change possibility, and location.
- Align with Your Values: Ensure that each job prospect aligns with your values to find fulfillment in your next role.
4. Create a Job-Hunting Schedule:
- Plan Your Activities: Develop a daily or weekly schedule for networking, job searching, resume drafting, and interview preparation.
- Set Goals: Establish specific goals for each day to maintain focus and a sense of accomplishment during your job search.
5. Explore Interesting Jobs Before Applying:
- Keyword Research: Scan job boards and use Boolean searches to identify interesting positions.
- Highlight Keywords: Focus on keywords in job descriptions and recognize common themes across various job opportunities.
What to Do on the Day of the Layoff:
A. Review Documents:
- Pause and Reflect: Take a moment to absorb the news without immediate reactions.
- Review Separation Documents: Understand the details of severance, benefits, and other terms outlined in the separation documents provided by the company.
B. Seek Legal Advice (If Needed):
- Consult Union Representatives: If part of a union, consult representatives regarding collective bargaining agreements and potential rehiring.
- Legal Consultation: Seek legal advice, especially if you suspect discrimination or if your age group has been disproportionately affected.
C. Apply for Unemployment:
- Initiate the Process: Immediately begin the application process for unemployment benefits, adhering to your state’s guidelines.
- Understand Eligibility: Know the eligibility criteria and potential impact of severance pay on unemployment benefits.
What to Do in the Week After Layoff:
A. Evaluate Severance Package:
- Assess Offer vs. Needs: Evaluate the severance package in terms of lump sum vs. salary continuation, health insurance continuation, and additional assistance.
- Negotiate Terms: If applicable, negotiate terms based on your specific needs and priorities.
B. Update Professional Presence:
- Resume and LinkedIn: Update your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio.
- Network Communication: Reach out to professional contacts, mentors, and former colleagues, sharing your updated status and job preferences.
C. Prepare for Job Search:
- Structure Your Day: Establish a structured routine for job searching, application submissions, and networking.
- Self-Care: Allocate time for self-care and activities to maintain a healthy work-life balance during the job search.
D. Legal Considerations:
- Reference Check: Inquire about what information the company will provide in future reference checks. Clarify the reason for the layoff with your former manager.
Ongoing Job Search Strategies:
A. Strategic Application:
- Quality Over Quantity: Focus on quality job applications rather than sheer quantity. Tailor resumes and cover letters for each application.
- Network Continuously: Regularly engage in networking activities, both online and offline, to tap into unadvertised job opportunities.
B. Continuous Improvement:
- Resume Feedback: Seek feedback on your resume and cover letter from mentors or friends with hiring experience.
- Stay Updated: Stay informed about current job search trends, especially in the era of social media.
C. Self-Reflection:
- Define Career Goals: Continuously reflect on your career goals and adjust your job search strategy accordingly.
- Adapt to Feedback: Be open to feedback and adapt your approach based on the responses and interactions during your job search.
Remember, a layoff is a business decision and doesn’t diminish your value. Take control of the situation, leverage available resources, and approach your job search with resilience and determination.