I have been laid off! Now What?

Due to a major corporate downsizing - I've been laid off! Is this a career killer? Everyone I talked to knows someone who has been laid off or the samething has happened to them too. Should I panic and take the first job I find, even if it's less money, a smaller company or job OR be patient and embrace the time off and indulge in unemployment benefits?

Unemployeed in USA


Dear Unemployeed in USA,
Job loss in the context of layoffs is definitely not a career killer. But you must be positive through job loss. Don't take it personally!

This is an opportunity to reframe your thinking. Ask yourself - Where you happy with your career? Acknowledge that either way, you are going to go through an - Emotional Roller Coaster. For some, being laid off comes as a relief from a hated job. For others, being laid off makes them feel anxious, insecure, and fearful of the financial impact, and it doesn't matter whether they liked the job or not. Feelings of anger, blame, shame, betrayal, depression, and loss of all motivation and energy are all completely normal during a job loss.

Here are 6 Ways for Managing Job Loss Stress and Gain Perspective.

1. Evaluate your financial situation - this will determine your future steps. Savings, severance, other income, monthly expenses. Consider taking time off to smell the roses - whether it is a week or a month. Whether you take time off depends on your family responsibilities, financial resources, and how the layoff has impacted you. If you can afford to take time off, I definitely recommend it.
2. If you're laid off, throw a party for yourself. It may not make sense, but you need to acknowledge your contributions and accomplishments, fond memories, life lessons, and then move on so that you can make a new life.
3. Getting laid off can take a toll on your mind, body, and soul. Spend time with friends and family, read a book, get involved with an organization that matters to you, or engage in your favorite hobbies. This renewal time will help you regain your clarity and internal compass, which will be critical in creating your new career vision and also help you network for your new gig.
4. Research your salary and job options. Things are never as dim as you think they are. There are jobs out there - and there is a job that will be a good fit, with the right salary and right growth opportunities. Think about how your skills might transfer to other industries or jobs, and areas of the country and inspire yourself by researching your options.
5. Be selective in your search. The desire to jump right back into the job market is tempting especially given today's economy. However, people who panic and take jobs with lower pay or a demotion often regret it. Make sure that the position, company and salary are right for you. Squeezing a square peg in a round hole will not last long, eventually something will have to go.
6. Stay positive, keep your mind open to change and adopt a positive mindset. Let go of the old situations, release your negativity about being laid off, it will impact your job search attitude and can make you look like you're bitter, desperate or lack confidence in your abilities.