Dealing with the emotional and financial challenges of a sudden layoff or downsize is tough enough and often navigating today's job search can be daunting and downright scary.
If you have not conducted a job search in more than 10 years, you will find that the entire job search process as you knew it has changed. From resume postings and resume blasting programs to online career sites and recruiters, you can become lost in the shuffle without a clear plan.
Take one step at a time:
- Deal with the emotional aspect of the job loss - we often identity ourselves, our personal worth, and our rightful place in society based on our jobs. When you're unemployed, it is easy to give in to depression and doubt if you are not careful.
- Don't burn bridges - you may feel angry or betrayed, but don't use this time to take your frustrations out on your boss or former colleagues - they can play a strategic role in your job search success.
- Get letters of recommendations and testimonials - remember if you have not burned bridges, you can get referrals, kudos, and positive comments from individuals who worked closely with you - from managers to customers.
- Outplacement and career transition services - Many companies will automatically pay for outplacement and career transition services with a local company - take full advantage of those services or negotiate for them as part of your severance package.
- Revise and update your resume - if you have not been diligent with updating your resume every year, it would be worthwhile to consider an entire resume overhaul. Besides hiring an executive resume writer, consult books by Wendy Enelow like "Best Resumes for $100,000+ Jobs" and Best Cover Letters for $100,000+ Jobs"
- Get LinkedIn - LinkedIn continues to the best online social networking site for executives and senior professionals. With easy access to thousands of recruiters and key decision makers, you can also get connected to former colleagues, college alumni, friends, and anyone else who can help you make the right connections.
- Identify an executive job search support group - don't go it alone. Find a positive, high-energy team of professionals who meet regularly in person or virtually for ongoing encouragement, motivation, networking, and job referrals.
About the author:
Abby M. Locke is a career marketing architect, brand leadership coach, master resume write and the founder of the Beyond Glass Ceilings. She works with professional women to help them overcome job search obstacles and achieve career mastery in highly competitive, crowded marketplaces.
