Whether a country is in a recession or companies merge it is possible for a reduction in force (RIF) to occur. Receiving a layoff notice can be stressful even when expected. Personal finances can be difficult to manage and emotions range from joy to anger to depression. There are things to do to make the time between jobs easier.
Financially
Analyze spending habits and cut anywhere possible. Create a budget and keep to it. Remove credit cards from use and live on what is available through severance and unemployment. Contact creditors and explain the situation; some might be able to offer you a temporary reduction in payment or a small grace period. If a severance is offered use it to pay off or down credit; do not consider a severance to be bonus pay since it could be months until receiving a job offer.
Do not wait to file for unemployment benefits. Find out what services are available and accept any that might be helpful. This can be difficult due to pride but don’t let pride get in the way of accepting available services.
Emotionally
No matter how difficult the situation, leave on good terms. Co-workers and managers can provide references for potential employers. Employees who are staying are in a stressful situation too, so leaving in a positive manner helps everyone involved feel better.
Try to stay positive overall, but also give an outlet to negative emotions. Find someone to talk to, write in a journal, go jogging or spend time gardening. Bottling emotions will make surviving after a layoff more difficult, so find some way to use the energy they create.
Take time to reflect on achievements and goals. Consider further education or starting a business. Contact a contract or temp service; this could provide income if unemployment benefits expire and also a way to explore different career possibilities.
Make searching for a new position a job. Create a space at home suitable for working. Decide when during the day to perform job searching activities and stick with it. By making the job search a job itself it is easier to stay focused during the stress. If it has been a while since the last job interview, practice answering interview questions in a mirror or have a friend help role play an interview.
Remember that RIFs and layoffs happen to many people. There are many services available to assist in the job search online as well as through state agencies. Look into the options available and take advantage of offered services.
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