I hope you’re following along as we countdown the final 100 days of 2022 - you can join us anytime. Learn more about the program HERE.

I had lunch this week with a friend that recently went through a layoff.  She is one of the most incredible and dynamic women you’d ever come across.  Very skilled at her job, her company recently downsized, and she was one of the many displaced.  Regardless of the circumstances, these are the life events that shake us.  Aside from the obvious financial concerns that invariably come up quickly, it’s not uncommon to feel angry, betrayed, or even fearful.  I’ve gone through it myself.  If this is something you’re facing, allow me to offer a few things to consider:

• Losing a job, especially when it wasn’t your choice, is a loss.  There’s a grieving process inside us that deals with loss.  Allow it to unfold and understand why it’s happening.   

• Don’t become paralyzed with emotions.  While you need to work through your feelings, it shouldn’t prevent you from taking your next steps.  If you find your emotions are inhibiting your ability to move forward, please contact a mental health professional for assistance and support.  

• Rely on your network.  Do not be embarrassed or afraid to reach out to your network to let them know you’ve lost your job.  At one time or another, the vast majority of people have been there.  You have nothing to be embarrassed about and there may very well be someone who can help you make a connection that leads you to your next opportunity.

• In addition to updating your resume, use the resources available to you.  There are so many placement companies that are still in desperate need of great candidates.  In most instances, the fee for hiring is paid by the company seeking the candidate, if that’s the case, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.    

If you or someone close to you is going through a job displacement, get the help and support you need.  Remember, asking for help isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength.  We are the only ones who can decide what is the most beneficial at a difficult time.  Don’t keep it to yourself, speak up!