It can feel disappointing to lose your job. However, at some point in our life, it may happen, and it’s normal – a lot of people experience this. About 1.5% of people in work become unemployed every three months due to varying reasons. The only consolation that you must consider is that you’ve done your part to your best capabilities. An employee’s job loss can be due to a lot of circumstances: You might be laid off because your company isn’t doing well financially, the end of a contract, or it could be that you’re not meeting their expectations (in this, case, you can avoid it by reading this article).
Job Loss: Now What?
You just lost your job, now what? You might still be emotional and feel down. It’s okay, let yourself lament for a while. After you’ve reflected, take a short “detox” and enjoy your time off even if for a few days; it can help you in the process of getting your feet on the ground again.
Bouncing Back From Job Loss
Losing a job is a real problem. It lowers your self-confidence, affects finances and relationships. However, there are things you can do to thrive and survive for the time you’re unemployed. Here are some pieces of advice on how you can recover from a job loss:
Avoid Burning Bridges
Don’t burn bridges by acting out your anger if you are laid off. Be polite and professional — it may help you get hired back or snag a positive recommendation for a job elsewhere. Maintain your professionalism – show respect and part with them in a positive light.
Don’t Sulk
If you lost your job because of things you can’t control, don’t dwell on the things that are out of your control. Know that you did your best as a good employee instead of being a liability to the company. Instead of stressing yourself out, start your journey on finding a job.
Reach Out for Support
Let family members and friends help you if your job worries become too much to handle alone. Their support can alleviate stress and give you the energy to resume the search for a job. They can even help you look for a job, ask if they can reach out to their network for job ideas or new contacts who can help.
Make Use of Your Time
While you’re unemployed, try to learn new things. There are a lot of useful resources on the internet that can help you in your next job. Also, give ample time to prepare for any opportunities out there – update your resume, practice for interviews.
Prepare for Opportunities
Arm yourself with an updated resume that will appeal to employers. Be enthusiastic on looking for a new job. Show up to interviews with appropriate attire and confidence. Be on time and be at your best.
Have A Contingency Plan
Making sure your bases are covered in the event of a job loss is a smart way to be prepared ahead of time, rather than surprised and scrambling. While you are employed, build an emergency fund to help cover your expenses for three to six months in case you do lose your job. Alternatively, you can also start your own side business while you’re still employed that can serve as your fallback (just make sure your business doesn’t directly compete with your current employer or violate any employment agreement you may have signed).
You may have heard the saying, “when a door closes, another door opens, ” and it is true. Just do your part and look for that other door. Good luck!