One of the worst events in life that most of us go through is the loss of a job. So many of us value and measure our lives by the success we achieve in business. It seems to be more and more difficult to recover from the shock, disappointment, and fear of a job loss.
These hints and tips might help you get through the often overwhelming but most definitely temporary setback of unemployment.
- First, take a step back and give yourself a reasonable amount of time to process the emotion you will no doubt experience. It’s okay to “feel” without overreacting. Whatever you do, never go on a social media rant about your former employer or the industry you have spent so much time in. Remember what your mom and dad taught you… “Don’t burn bridges!”
- Take an honest look at your finances. This helps in figuring out the importance of bills. My dad always taught me, “Mortgage/rent and insurance first.” Prioritize – keeping in mind that most creditors have standard grace periods, and most often it only becomes serious after you pass the 60- and 90-day marks. Get rid of subscriptions you no longer need, reduce your streaming/cable/satellite choices, etc.
- Don’t discount unemployment benefits. Definitely check to see if you’re eligible. These benefits can help while you’re on the job hunt and could be enough for something important.
- Make certain you reach out to your professional network. I call the most important on that list my personal “Board of Directors.” Mine have proved to be invaluable friends and colleagues I have connected with over my career. Just be sure this is not the only time you ever make contact. This group of a half dozen or so is those who have been allies, trusted confidants, and advisors through the years. You should also reach out to others who may not have that top-level stature in your life, but those former colleagues, managers, and industry contacts may have, or know of, opportunities that may fit your skillset and experience.
- Once you have gone through a grieving period and have done due diligence on your financial analytics, then take a fresh look at your resume and make all changes to update and refresh the info that includes your recent experience and achievements. This is when updating your LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and experience may come in handy.
- Depending on your life cycle and changes since you accepted your previous position, it may be time to ask yourself if you are willing to make another move or not. Picking up a family, especially when a spouse has a good job and you have kids in school, makes moving less of a viable option for some. I have made terrible mistakes in this area without foreshadowing the fallout those choices would have on others important in my life.
- Begin exploring job listings and employment boards on all the more typical recruiting platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter. Please personalize your applications and cover letters and avoid sending out the same cover to everyone, which likely puts you at the bottom of the stack.
- While many of the companies in the industry we all know are going through these RIFS, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any jobs in other categories or markets that might fit your family’s needs so check those company websites. You may want to reach out to your previous manager or HR and ask if they know of any opportunities in the company that may work well. At the very least, you should look at those company career/opportunity web pages.
- If your finances can handle it, this may be the time to consider going back to school and/or taking courses to earn degrees or certifications that may help in your future endeavors.
- Avoid Pride! Sometimes, you may not find the same type of position you had before. Even temporary or part-time work helps with cash flow and pays the bills.
- Job searching can be a lengthy process, but perseverance is key. Stay positive, take care of your mental and physical health, and keep pushing forward.
- This is a very difficult crisis to go through completely alone. Look to your friends and family for emotional and spiritual help. Talking to a pastor or minister often helps. And certainly, don’t fear professional counseling. Talking about this with others does help.
What is most important is to keep this event in perspective. It is only temporary, and it very likely is not based on your performance. Most of all, it does NOT define you! You will get back to work. Fear can be extremely debilitating, so never let it get the best of you. You will survive, and while it may feel like hitting rock bottom, remember that rock bottom gives you an even stronger foundation for the next great opportunity waiting for you!
Bob Lawrence has more than 50 years in the radio business. He most recently served as market manager for MacDonald Broadcasting in Saginaw, MI.
