Job loss is one of the most stressful experiences a person can undergo. It releases a myriad of emotions such as anger, disbelief, guilt, depression, as well as panic and anxiety. However, over time these feelings give way to other coping mechanisms such as acceptance of the situation, reestablishing a positive outlook, and the recognition that this might be a blessing in disguise as it provides you with the opportunity to explore new areas for growth and development in your career.
Although you may feel a certain degree of discomfort in socializing with friends and associates, these are the very people who you should be contacting as they may well have a lead to a rewarding new opportunity. In addition, there is not nearly as much stigma attached to losing one’s job as there was even 20 years ago since the situation occurs with much greater frequency than in times past. This is especially so in the current economic climate where many large companies such as Citigroup, Pfizer, General Electric, and Nokia have laid off a large number of their combined global workforce.¹
Even though you lost your job there are still many positive aspects of your life such as your family and friends; the experience and skills you developed in your career to date which will be highly attractive to future employers if marketed effectively; the community activities you are involved with which may be a great source for finding new employment; your personal interests which you will continue to enjoy as time permits.
The loss of a job is, many times, an opportunity in disguise as it allows you to stop and reflect about what it is you really wish to do. It provides some breathing space for you to take stock of your values and goals. In the longer term you might very well find yourself more fulfilled in your next job since it will have come after designing a job search aligned with the core principles of your life.
Whether you have been laid off or are voluntarily seeking new employment, you now need to regroup and decide on next steps. This is the time to reevaluate those key factors that would make up your ideal job. These are difficult economic times but there are strategies you can employ which will provide you with a competitive edge over other job candidates. Before commencing any job search it is useful to outline six essential factors for success:
- Stay positive. Keep a positive mental attitude throughout the process as this attracts others to your cause.
- Prepare thoroughly. Do not rush the process but take it step-by-step. It may seem that by doing this your job search will take longer, but in the end, it may result in new employment sooner than those who do not take the time to prepare.
- Refine your job search skills as you move forward.
- Be Persistent. The efforts you put forth will lead to a new job at some point.
- Be Proactive. Set milestones every week for what you will accomplish and record every activity in a journal or notebook.
- Enlist Help. Reach out to your colleagues, associates and friends and let them know of your job search campaign.
You can get more practical tips from FREE 85-page EBook on, “THE KEYS TO OVERCOMING JOB LOSS AND MARKETING YOURSELF EFFECTIVELY.” ~ http://www.iwcpl.com/EBook-Form.html
