§ uncertainty about who will be immediately impacted;
§ uncertainty about who will be next;
§ knowledge that colleagues or direct reports will be impacted before they do;
§ loss of resources and information sources;
§ work load increases and re-distribution, either for the health of the organization or to appear productive during times of change.
Is it any wonder knowledge of an impending lay off may be as stressful as the actual layoffs?
Tips for planning ahead if you know you’re part of a layoff:
- Update your resume, focusing on the value you bring to your current and past employers;
- Activate or begin networking today – let your network know you’re considering new opportunities. Help them, help you by being specific about the opportunities and industries you’re interested in;
- Assess your financial situation;
Tips for discussing with prospective employers:
- Focus on what you bring to the prospective employer. They care more about what you can do for them then they do about your concerns.
- If asked, be honest but don’t elaborate or talk negatively about your current employer. Model the type of professional behavior they can expect from you when you work for them.
Tips for dealing with the emotional side of being let go:
- Don’t minimize the impact of job transition. Give yourself time to grieve and accept the support of others;
- Join a transition support group. Check with your local unemployment office or place of worship to locate groups;
- Journal to uncover your emotions and help focus on what you envision for your next role.
- Some great books to read during times of transition are “Transitions” by William Bridges; “Embracing Uncertainty” by Susan Jeffers and “the Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruez; and “Empowering Women to Change the World: Career and Life Strategies for Women” by Julie Moore Rapacki and available at
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