by Sally Kearsley
For many of us, what we do in our careers is an important part of what defines us as people. When we lose our jobs, it is not just that we lose our source of income. We also lose the camaraderie of colleagues, our sense of purpose, the joy of accomplishment, and the ability to use our skills and knowledge productively. And it all happens at once!
Whether the job loss is unexpected or anticipated, we go through:
- a feeling of disbelief ("I can't believe this has happened to me!");
- hurt and anger ("How can they do this to me after all I've done for this company?"); and
- a sense of helplessness ("What am I going to do now?").
These are normal reactions to this new set of circumstances over which we have little control, but it is critical to begin to move beyond the job loss as soon as possible.
For someone who has been in a position of recruiting and hiring others or advising others about career choice, it can be especially unsettling to be on the other side of the desk, particularly if you have not been in the job market for a while.
Conducting a job search, and being interviewed and evaluated by someone else is a peculiar experience.
Here is some advice that may be helpful as you explore this unfamiliar terrain.
- Take advantage of any transition/outplacement services your employer offers. Don't let pride stand in your way. But don't expect that others will find your new position for you—you must be proactive.
- Evaluate your career goals. Do you want to look for the same type of position you just left, or are there other options? For you, losing a job may feel like a release—it makes it possible to pursue a different career path which might be a better fit for your skills and interests.
- If you were terminated because of a slow economy in your sector, explore how your skills and experience could be used in those fields that are not experiencing a decline. Key in on your transferable skills—the skills that are valuable in other settings.
- Update your resume in both the "usual" format to mail or hand to people and in a scannable format to be e-mailed or submitted on-line. If you haven't been in a job search mode for a while, seek assistance.
- Use your network! Don't be embarrassed to let your colleagues and friends know that you are looking for a job. If you belong to a professional or service organization, continue to attend meetings. Talk with people you know about your job search and follow up on any suggestions they give you. Always have a copy of your updated resume with you in case you learn of a possible opening.
- Make up new "business" cards with your current contact information. It's any easy way to share the basic information you need to hand a networking contact.
- Accept that looking for a new job is a job. You must be ready to follow up on any lead. Yes, look at want ads, but also access Internet resources. There are many web sites that may be of help, but start with the web site of your professional groups - many provide links to related sites which list jobs.
- Consider relocation. Not all parts of the country are experiencing a recession. If you are able to relocate, you will have more options.
- Maintain a positive attitude! A positive attitude feels difficult if your search continues for long. If you permit yourself to be overcome with unhappiness at your plight, you will only worsen the situation, both for you and those around you. You must believe that when one door closes, another opens!
Good luck in your job search!