We all have heard the word lay-off sometime in the last year, in fact, I'm pretty sure you know at least a handful of people that have suffered lay-offs due to the economy. I recently interviewed a candidate who insisted I blog about the things I learned as I have been laid off twice in my life and the suggestions I gave her gave her a more positive outlook on life in general during this hard time. So here are the things that I learned (on top of job searching) that helped me during those rough times..
Things I Learned When Being Laid Off:
- THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT: Do one thing for an hour everyday that makes
you happy. Whether this is going to Starbucks to get your favorite drink or
watching your favorite movie, listening to your favorite song or writing
poetry--make sure it is for you and it is something that makes you happy. This cannot
be job search related and should not involve the telephone. This is your time
to just do something that makes you happy.
- Do not blame yourself. Many times people walk away feeling like they
did something whereas layoffs are a cause of the economy, which is not your
fault. DO NOT BLAME YOURSELF!
- Try to keep a normal schedule. Go to bed at a decent hour and wake up
early. Seriously, this will help you in the long run and you'll feel refreshed.
The first time I got laid off I was staying out till 5am and waking up at
noon-not healthy and honestly, it prevented me from getting things accomplished
during the day making me feel worse. Keeping normal hours will also help you
when you do get a job, as it won't take as long to get back into a routine.
- Find a positive reinforcement buddy. Pick a few people or even one and
make sure they know you might call them just to hear something positive or a
joke, etc. I had two and they were great and made sure to just shoot me a quick
email weekly to make sure I stayed on task.
- Reach out to your contacts. I would recommend getting on LinkedIn and starts
making a list of contacts you feel comfortable reaching out to discuss your job
search. These are tier one contacts-maybe meet them for coffee and find out if
they know anyone that is hiring, etc. Make sure you follow up with a written
thank you card--thanks yous go a LONG way!!!
- Read Never Eat Alone by Keith
Ferrazzi-it is a great motivational book about who you know can help you--never
be afraid to ask someone for help. The worst things someone can say is they
can't help you.
- Stay Positive!!! If you make sure to take care of yourself and follow
these things I learned, then you will eventually find a job!!!
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