Regardless of economic conditions, if you're laid-off, it's likely to feel personal and your emotions will probably fluctuate between uncomfortable and devastated. In a recent article for CBS, Katherine Cowley, a New York psychiatrist commented - “We like to deny that we are expendable. So when we are told ‘we have to let you go,’ it feels like an assault.”
If you find yourself in this situation, try not to freak-out and remember that it's how you conduct yourself at this point that will either help you back on your feet or crash your career further into the ground.
Katherine Cowley also commented - "You never know who you will meet or need a reference from again. Exiting gracefully is one of the most important skills for someone who plans on building their career.”
Here are the top 7 rules:
1. Don't freak out
Avoid showing anger or tears - they will not serve you well.
2. Negotiate your exit
Turn the situation around - this is a very vulnerable moment for the person who's laying you off. Take advantage of that. Ask for letters of reference, moving costs etc...
3. Fine-tune your 'do do' list
Make some time for yourself - prioritize what work really needs to be done and work to get that completed.
4. Save your contacts
Download your address book and get contacts for your x-colleagues
5. Look after yourself
You don't want to turn up to interviews looking like a wounded animal so get enough sleep, food and some exercise. Also, try to enjoy your time out - do stuff you wouldn't usually have time to do like spending more time with your family and friends.
6. Reach-out to your networking circle
Be sure though to convey the right image. For example, make sure you'd be happy showing your Facebook page to your new boss
7. Drink responsibly
Amusing as it sounds, the last thing you want is to leave the wrong lasting impression with your x-colleagues of you drunk as a skunk at the leaving do.
For more information and more ideas on how to get the best from this situation, click here: How to Exit your Job Gracefully
Comments