By: Robin Carlen
Losing a job can have a way of making you feel like you’re no longer needed, or even worse, no longer important. Just because the company you worked for has a re-org, is bought by another company, or decides they no longer require your services, it doesn't mean there is something wrong with YOU. Please read this again, because it’s very true. Based on my experience with many job seekers, I believe that you will land again and (hopefully) will end up in a better situation.
Like most people, I myself have gone through a career transition. I think it was particularly painful because there was a lot going on behind the scenes that other people I worked with knew nothing about. It was my secret for several months that I could no longer be a part of managements’ philosophy or ‘support’ how employees were being treated, so I announced that I would be leaving to pursue other opportunities, which of course was just the tip of the iceberg. That was a difficult time in my life, but looking back, it was one of the best things (career wise) that has ever happened to me.
These are some things I learned that I hope may be helpful to you or anyone you know who finds themselves going through a career transition:
1. This time in your life is only temporary, although right now it seems like it will go on forever. Take steps to keep your spirits up and surround yourself with supportive, positive, people.
Action: Reach out for support from your family, friends and trusted colleagues. One of the worst things about being out of a job is the isolation that can accompany it. Visit a family member or friend you haven’t seen in awhile. Go out for a walk, meet a friend for lunch in a nearby park, and set a date to see a movie. Send an email or call your colleagues to ask how they are doing and if you can meet for a cup of coffee. Volunteer to help others and possibly even make a work connection at the same time. Participate in one (just one) networking event if the thought of networking intimidates you. It's very important to get out of the house and not be stuck at home, which can foster inactivity and depression.
2. You are valuable no matter whether you have a job or not, whether you have the title and money you want or not, or whether other people think you are valuable or not.
Action: Sometimes things just don’t work out, and there is a lot you can’t control. I learned a long time ago that it's dangerous to attach your feelings of self worth to any job you have or company you work for, because nothing is permanent. To remind yourself of all you’ve accomplished, write a list of all the things you did at company “X” (and prior) that made a contribution to the company. Did you achieve goals that saved money, reduced expenses, and/or improved team performance? Write these down and be prepared to use them to help you land your next job. Remind yourself that you were (and are still) a valuable employee AND person.
3. Keep your mind on the positive by monitoring the negativity you're exposed to.
Action: I know this will sound biased, but bear with me because I think it’s relevant. The amount of negativity we're being exposed to on a daily basis, particularly in the media, has increased tremendously. I have no business telling people what they can and cannot watch, but I hope you will at least consider how you feel after you’ve seen negative news and other programs. Do they make you feel better? Do you feel more motivated? Are you happier? Or less so? Consider reading your news online and avoiding those things that are upsetting. Also stay away from the naysayers who tell you negative things about your job search or 'what they've heard' about the job market. You need people to be positive and supportive of you, especially right now.
4. You never know where this transition may lead you. It led me to work I love that is more closely aligned with my skills, experience and values, and it can do the same for you.
Action: Think about the skills and responsibilities you most enjoy using. Decide what your non-negotiable values are that can't be left at the front door (i.e., be ignored) in order for you to be successful at your next company. How can you leverage and use them more often in your next job? Consider the alternatives of starting your own business or consulting. There are many options available today, and they don't always involve being a full-time W2 employee.
Contact me at robin@robincarlen.com or (650) 773-5630 for more information about career coaching services, training and events. To subscribe to our newsletter, visit the website at: https://www.robincarlen.com
(Originally posted on December 11, 2015)