What to do after you get laid off

There is no doubt that getting laid off is a shock to the system. Even if you saw it coming, even if you were already looking for other work, being let go is a big upset in someone’s life. What you do immediately after you are laid off can have a big impact on the rest of your job search. Here are some things to keep in mind if your fresh off the chopping block.

1. Get your emotions in check

While this is easier said than done, you need to make the time and effort to emotionally process your job loss. You may be surprised by how upset you are, even if it is an expected lay off. Losing work affects self-esteem and there is a sense of loss, even if you weren’t that crazy about your job. Realize that it’s okay to feel these things and talk it out with someone if you need to. You want to avoid reacting emotionally when making decisions at this point, however.

2. Negotiate a severance package

This is where keeping your feelings in line might be difficult but is absolutely crucial. Anger or hurt can cripple your negotiation skills and this is the time to bring those out. Ask for four weeks’ severance pay for each year you have been there. Ask to have all your vacation paid out and for them to pay for an outplacement agency service. Remind them you are the breadwinner in your family, if necessary. Agree on an exit story that will allow you to apply for unemployment.

3. Wait a couple days to share

Keep the news of your lay off to your closest family and friends for a few days to give you some time to deal with your emotions. You don’t want to write scathing emails about your former boss you former colleagues and come to regret that later. Develop an exit story about how you will now have other opportunities and can explore a new career path. Stay positive.

4. Do update your online status right away.

If you are on LinkedIn or other career networking sites, simply update your status with something about the new opportunity you are looking for. This gives your network a heads up that you are looking and the more people you have keeping an eye out for that next job, the better.

5. Repair your confidence

Sit down and make a list of your 10 greatest accomplishments. Enlist the help of family and friends to compile your list. Reconnect with your successful self and recall all you have accomplished. Imagine what you want your future to look like in 10 or 15 years. Think about what you can do know to make way for those future goals. Now is the time for new beginnings.
 

If you are interested in an education career, view www.educationjobsite.com

By: Becky Papp