Layoffs used to be temporary. This meaning has now changed because, for a long time, this term has been used to refer to the permanent elimination of employees as part of the cost-cutting measure. One of the most difficult situations in an employee’s life is when the main source of income stops completely.
However, it is essential that you remain calm and create strategies to overcome it.
Here are some tips that can be incorporated to survive a layoff or downsizing:
o Define your network: The first step to surviving a layoff is to define a network of friends, co-workers and professional associations that can be of some help.
o Approach the human resources department: You can ask your old human resources department to help you get a job. The human resources department is one of the powerful departments in an organization and has many contacts.
o Update your resume – Resume is one of the most essential marketing tools while looking for a job. Make sure your resume is clear and concise and specifically written. It serves as one of the best ways to market your talents. With this fact in mind, make sure your resume is written according to the company’s requirements. Try to present a brief description of your qualifications to the interviewer.
o Scan classified ads for potential employers – It is important to search for potential employers as it will give you an idea of what companies are looking for employees with the type of skills you possess. The main idea behind browsing through the classified ads is to check those companies that are well established and not facing losses.
o Reorganize your finances: Make sure you organize your finances as soon as you’ve been laid off. Try to save more money than ever and sell things that you probably won’t be using in the near future.
o Contact your state unemployment office: As soon as possible, contact your state unemployment office as it helps eliminate the waiting period.
o Submit your updated resumes to different job portals: To get a job faster, submit your resume to as many online job portals as possible. Highlight your skills and qualifications and approach multiple employers simultaneously. Be sure to use specialized cover letters for each company and job opening.
o Contact References – You can also contact references and let them know you are back in the market. They may be able to help.
o Request a letter of recommendation: Letters of recommendation help people get better opportunities in life. To get a good job, you can ask your previous employers to write a letter of recommendation for you, and if it’s convenient and not too busy, mention what happened to your previous employer.
o Practice mock interviews – To present yourself in a better light, you should practice mock interviews so that you can confidently deal with the interviewer.
Losing a job is never easy; the tips above can make it easier to make your way.