Recently lost your job? You’re likely not over the initial shock, even if you know it’s coming as part of a down-sizing process. Getting finances in order, launching a job search, establishing a new routine all take some time, thought and effort. Often, people find themselves wondering where to start.
My advice is to take things slowly. Take some time to digest your change in employment before making any big changes.
It’s easy to fall into panic mode. Sometimes a job loss is a relief, but many times, it’s a shock. In either case, take the time you need to absorb the loss. Going through a degree of sadness is part of the healing process.
Avoid building stress by analyzing how much you need to do to land a job; just focus on one step at a time, particularly in the first few days or weeks. For example:
Don’t
• Make big decisions, such as cashing in your 401(k).
• Speak ill of your previous employer.
• Spend all your severance pay at once.
• Call everyone you know and ask for a job.
• Hide from your friends out of embarrassment.
• Jump at the first job offer without consideration.
Do
• Discuss major decisions with family or friends.
• Take the time you need to move through your job loss.
• Practice what you want to tell others about your job loss.
• Take the high road when describing your experience with your former employer. Focus on the skills you acquired.
• Seek professional help if you stay in a state of sadness and struggle with moving forward.
If you’ve ever lost your job, what helped you pick yourself up and move on?
