Job Search What to Avoid

You have just been laid off, and in a previous blog (here), I discussed in my personal career life that there are a few ways a person could find themselves unemployed, namely company acquisition, company restructures, company bankruptcy, political and role elimination.

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The content does not inform the reader how to find a job, but it does offer 5 items you will want to avoid if you look to maintain positive demeanor and find a new career.  While these items may be obvious to most, keep in mind typically they are the first items that most people who experience sudden job loss will be driven to do.  I am sharing this because it was part of my journey and my learning is your learning.

The 5 items to avoid –

• Don’t Panic!

This could lead you down the path of self-doubt. You will second guess yourself repeatedly, it is counter-productive and can lead to other impulsive actions and decisions you wish you didn’t make. Alternatively, it will probably work out far better for you if you just accept this situation; you are not going to change it anytime soon.

• Don’t take this personally!

In my experience most layoffs occur as a result of poor management, company and operational changes, and company cost cutting initiatives. (Well at least that is what they tell you) Instead, just stayed focused on your own situation and understand why you were let go. Trust me, you will revisit all these feelings many times during your job search, it is a normal behavior, just really take to heart, in most cases is was not your fault.

• Don’t neglect your physical and mental health!

Sudden job loss or finding yourself unemployed for whatever the reason, is a very stressful situation. Frankly, for most people losing your job is one of the most difficult life experiences you will go through. Instead you should take a balanced look at yourself and refocus on the positive aspects of your life. This is very hard to do – for me, when the smoke cleared and I was able to accept the situation (how long this takes is different for all persons) , I wrote down all the positive things that are in my favor – I started with – I have a huge amount of free time – trust me, write that down – read it, you will find a long list after that first item.

• Don’t Liquidate Your Retirement and 401K Savings Accounts!

Honestly, you’re thinking, “how am I going to pay my bills”, and you would be justified in thinking this, go to your list of positive things, hash out and rationalize how you are going to pay your bills, really think about this and write it down! You really want to steer clear of liquidating your retirement – this would be a big mistake that will leave you worst off then when you originally thought “how am I going to pay my bills”.  You will find yourself with the extra burden of taxes on the funds you withdrew; remember 401K type accounts are pre-taxed. In addition know that there is a 10% penalty on withdrawals before the age of 59 1/2 years old. Rethink your priorities, go to your list and add to it and separate your wants from your needs and make the necessary changes to reflect your new cash flow reality.

• Don’t Bad-Mouth Your Former Employer!

Don’t ever do this, this is up there as one of the most counter-productive things you could do. Please remember that you are no longer working for this company, and any negative comments from you will only reflect badly on yourself. Keep in mind that if you focus on the real value aspects of your previous employer or of your previous job role you will come across as someone who is professional, positive and resilient.  This leads to more conversations as you market yourself during your job search.

To succeed at this minor stumble in your career, and to prosper in your next role – be sure to stay away from the items mentioned above. Use the alternatives suggested if you would like, but merely avoiding these items will improve your results.

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