Were you recently downsized out of your job? Here are some tips on how to handle a layoff and move forward:
- Take a little time to relax and get support from those close to you. Some clients take a brief vacation, a good idea if it doesn’t turn into a long period of avoiding the job search.
- When you are ready to start looking for a new position, the first step would be to update your resume to include your most recent position. Make sure that it clearly delineates and quantifies your accomplishments while specifically targeting the type of position you are seeking.
- Maintain your contacts from your former organization.
- Attend meetings of appropriate professional associations to renew old connections and to create new ones. Cultivate the people you meet with whom you have professional interests in common.
- Have lunch or a drink at least once a week with someone in your network.
- Update your LinkedIn profile and contact those in your network. If LinkedIn is something you haven’t paid a lot of attention to, make significant additions to your network.
- Read professional journals to keep abreast of trends in your area.
During your search, maintain a positive attitude, keep your skills sharp, develop and maintain positive connections. Remember that 65-70% of people get their jobs through informal contacts. Soon one of them will be you!
