Picture this, one day you’re walking into the office as a full-time employee and the next thing you know, you’re made redundant. It’s a situation that can strike fear into anyone’s heart, but instead of panicking, take it as an opportunity to reassess and take positive steps towards the future. In this journey of words, you will find what steps to take when faced with such a situation.
Addressing the Emotional Impact
Losing a job can be emotionally devastating. The initial shock might make you feel as if the rug has been pulled from under your feet. However, it is important to understand that it’s okay to grieve. You just lost something significant in your life. So, give yourself permission to feel upset but remember not to dwell on these negative emotions for too long.
Review Your Finances
The first practical step you need to shuffle through after losing your job is reviewing your finances. You need to understand where your money goes each month and how much you have left over after necessary expenses. This could be the difference between keeping the lights on and having them switched off. Start by creating a budget that reflects your current financial reality.
Contact Your Former Employer
You are entitled to a few things after losing your job. Depending upon the circumstances of your employment termination, you might be eligible for unemployment benefits. Be sure to also ask about collecting any unused vacation or sick days. If possible, negotiate severance pay.
Activate Your Network
You never know where your next big break is going to come from. So, reach out to your connections – old colleagues, friends, family members, mentors, and others who might be able to help you in your job search. Using LinkedIn or any alumni network is a great way to start. Let them know what type of roles you’re looking for and scope out any possible job openings.
Upgrade Your Skills
If you need to upgrade your skills or learn new ones in your field, then you should invest the time and energy to do so. After all, learning new skills could provide more opportunities and make you a more competitive candidate.
Make Use of Available Resources
You live in an era where there are countless resources—both free and paid—that can guide you along on your path back to employment. Jobs websites offer advice on creating effective resumes and cover letters, prepping for interviews, and all other aspects of the job search process.
Exercise Regularly
Do not underestimate the power of regular exercise—its good for both body and mind. Thanks to the release of feel-good endorphins during physical activity, regular exercise can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression that you may experience following job loss.
Embrace Optimism
Losing a job might feel like the end of the world initially but remember this is not the case. With every loss comes a clean slate, an opportunity to start anew and create something even better than before. Embrace this time as an opportunity for exploration — rethink career paths, focus on personal growth, or pursue passions you’ve put on hold due to consistent work commitments. Know that it’s okay and often necessary to take one step back in order to take several steps forward.
Landing Next Position
Finally, when you start receiving job offers, give thought to whether or not it is truly a good fit before accepting. Through it all, keep patience and have faith that the job which will make you truly happy and satisfied is out there waiting for you.