The job market has shifted dramatically in the past year. Many companies have laid off employees as they are trying to operate leaner in an uncertain economic environment. This has been particularly true in the technology industry and has affected people whose job it is to hire employees such as recruiters. Getting laid off can be very frightening and overwhelming. If you have been laid off here are few tips to get through a challenging experience.
1. Apply for unemployment insurance.
Everyone will be in a different circumstance after a layoff. It helps to have a plan in terms of finances. It is helpful to assess where you are financially. In most cases, you are entitled to unemployment insurance. Since it can take several weeks for the paperwork to be processed by your state, applying right after being laid off is advised. Remember, that unemployment insurance is run by each state, if you have worked in multiple states, in many cases you can apply in either state and note that each state pays out a different weekly maximum amount. When applying, you should have a copy of your most recent pay stub, any severance amount, and any other payouts such as vacation accrual because they will ask you about all of this information. It helps to be patient when working with unemployment insurance in your state as it can often be difficult to reach them with questions.
2. Focus on your mental health.
Feelings of fear related to finances and finding a new job is valid. Additionally, it is common to feel a loss of identity if you tie your identity and self-worth to your job. Although these feelings are normal it is important to try to maintain good mental health to feel good and be in the best position to find a new job. Some basic ways to take care of yourself are exercising, eating healthily, getting the right amount of sleep, and leaning on a support system of family and friends as opposed to isolating. It can be helpful to realize that this is a big challenge but, in all likelihood, you will get another job and will grow stronger by overcoming this hurdle.
3. Work on your resume and apply for jobs.
If your layoff was unexpected your resume may not be up to date. When you feel ready it makes sense to update your resume and start applying for jobs. Keep in mind that it is a difficult job market for white-collar employees so it may take a lot of applications and interviews to land a job offer. You may also want to practice interviewing and try to network to find a new job. Please try to be kind to yourself as you are trying your best to get through a stressful life event in the best way possible.
Getting laid off can be very challenging. If you have recently been laid off it can be helpful to apply for unemployment insurance, focus on your mental health and work on your resume and apply for jobs. If you are struggling with a layoff,career counseling can help. I have worked with many clients cope with being laid off. Contact me today for a free consultation