Tough times are a reality, especially in 2020.  At some point or another, we all run into layoffs and furloughs.  If you are early in your career, congratulations, you have checked this box early on.  If you are a little further in, then you’ve probably seen this before.  You will survive, and here are some quick and easy steps to help you do just that.

Step 1: Stay Calm.  Don’t burn bridges.

You get the news that you are going to be laid off, furloughed, or outright let go.  Take a breath and remain calm.  Don’t take the job loss personally and don’t use it as an excuse to act out.  Maintain your professionalism and courtesy.  Don’t burn any bridges on your way out of the door.  Remember that there is a good chance that you will end up working with some of these people again or they may know someone that knows someone.  Word of mouth connections can be critical to finding a new job.  You might also need references for your next position.  Don’t let poor behavior to be the last thing they remember about you.

Step 2: Build a Routine

Once you are at home full time, it is time to make a routine.  Be sure to wake up at the same time every day.  Eat healthy, balanced meals, incorporate a little exercise, and make sure you build in time each day for your job search.  You aren’t at work anymore and regardless how sedentary your job may have been, you probably moved more there than you do sitting at home.  Making a routine is important to keep us on track and prevent slipping into the lay-off blues.  Having a reliable and steady routine allows us to fall back on something concrete when our fears get the best of us.

Step 3: Start your Job Search.

You will need to update your resume and LinkedIn profile. You need to think about your accomplishments and the day to day activities of what you did in your previous position. Your resume style will change as you advance in your career. What worked at the associate level will not work for a CFO.

Also consider what you want to be when you grow up. Did you like the job you had?  Do you want another job just like it?  Maybe you want to change industries or switch careers.  It is never too late to try something new.  If you need any help with resume or career advice, please contact us. 

Step 4: Fill your Time at Home.

After you have your resume updated, LinkedIn profile up to date, and your routine down, it’s time to have a little fun!  Losing a job is a blow to anybody and the best remedy for that is a quick win.  Cross something off the Honey-Do list, handle a project you’ve been meaning to work on for a long time, or spend time on that hobby you enjoy.  In fact, why not learn a new hobby or skill?  Learning new things makes our brains grow in new directions and helps fight off depression.  You never know, your new employer may love your new skill!

 Step 5: Success!

Your hard work has paid off.  You’ve found a job and had some personal accomplishments along the way.  Your new position may even be more satisfying than your last one!  All of this success because you never lost hope and you survived the layoff.

 Congratulations!

Anything is possible when you put your mind to it.  Surviving a layoff is as simple as having some grace, making a plan, starting the new job hunt, and remembering to take care of yourself.  You are the most important asset to yourself and your family and we are here to help you survive if you need us.