Negative news is always hard to relay verbally, let alone when the news touches all facets of the family. Being laid off is very emotional and trying on your mental strength and having to speak about it shortly after can be traumatizing.
However, don’t be like many I have heard about who have hidden their termination from their spouses and others close to them. They have brushed it aside and pretended to go to work each day for weeks after and hung around in a coffee shop all day. Then, return at night as usual as if nothing occurred.
Be smart. Be honest with yourself and others.
Open honest and constructive dialogue with those around you and all who will be impacted by the termination as soon as possible.
Lean on those around you, they can coach and champion you through this and watch as you grow and win.
Conversations will start with an emotional and perhaps tearful interaction with those closest to you and the persons who will be impacted the most. It’s OK to be upset and even angry when searching for answers. Let your frustrations out, it is part of the healing process.
However, be realistic. Once you have passed the initial shock and you are feeling more peaceful, speak with others close to you. Start the interaction by letting them know you have upsetting news to prepare their reactions.
After delivering the message, ask for their support and guidance. You want a team around you to steer you throughout the ups and downs.
Then reach out to your wider community and circle of friends, relatives and acquaintances. Time will prevail individual conversations, so be bold and open and draft an e-mail or text. Brevity is important; don’t go on and on. Say something like this:
Dear friends: I am anxious to share some unfortunate news with you. I was laid off from my work two weeks ago. Yes, it was unexpected; I am in the processing and emotional stages. During the next few days and weeks when the shock has settled, I will figure out my next career move. However, if you want to meet for coffee or something more, my schedule is open!
Stand by for many replies and calls, offers of help and sympathy. It could be overwhelming, depending on the size of your network. But, conversation, whether in-person or via a telephone call, is healthy as it provides the opportunity to air your anger and frustration. People will circle around you and generally let you vent!
The final piece of the puzzle is to share your situation on social media. This is where your extended network will be briefed about your circumstances and the social media population can provide some help and generate leads.
It’s not a sin to have been terminated. Thousands each week are asked to leave for a variety of reasons.
It’s not embarrassing. Be bold, open and honest.
On your LinkedIn profile, in the heading under your picture, tell the world you are in career transition. Write: “Actively seeking my next challenge when I can transform the business, achieve operational and fiscal excellence.”
Stay positive, remain calm and collected as you embark on a job search. There are opportunities waiting for you.
For a free, no-obligation, no sales pitch resume critique, send your resume via LinkedIn or via email to martin@aneliteresume.com
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