A layoff, depending on your circumstances, can be an unsettling experience, especially if it was unexpected. If you’re one of those people, you’re probably wondering what comes next and how to recover after a layoff.
Fortunately, a layoff does not have to be the end of your career. In fact, it may be a good thing that happened to you. Here are some ideas for not only recovering after a layoff but also making the most of your time.
What exactly is a layoff?
A layoff is when an employer fires an employee temporarily or permanently for reasons that have nothing to do with how well the employee did their job.
Employees may be laid off as a cost-cutting measure due to a drop in demand for their products or services, a result of a seasonal closure, or during an economic downturn. Employees who are laid off lose all wages and benefits from the company, but they are eligible for unemployment insurance or compensation.
Common Layoff Reasons
Cost-reducing measures
One of the most common reasons for layoffs is that the company is trying to cut costs in some way.
This could be due to the company having to pay off debts, having fewer sales, or the company no longer having the financial backing of investors. In any case, the company could save money by eliminating some positions and reallocating the funds elsewhere.
Company relocation
Company stakeholders may decide to relocate the business to a different region of the country, which is common for businesses that require more space for operations or want to be in a city that is more conducive to the industry.
Employees who are unable to relocate with the company may be laid off in order to find work elsewhere.
Business closing
Suppose a company is going out of business. In that case, it will most likely begin to lay off employees, keeping only those who are required to work to maintain the business’s level of operations. The remaining employees may be laid off if the company goes out of business.
Mergers
A merger occurs when two distinct companies combine to form one new company. Two companies may merge for tax reasons or to expand their product offerings, reduce industry competition, and increase profits.
While mergers may indicate that the new company requires more employees to help it achieve its objectives, they may also have an impact on the employment of some employees.
The leaders of the newly formed business may decide to lay off some employees in order to save money or avoid duplicate positions within the organization.
Outsourcing options
Hiring and retaining employees can be costly due to the costs of recruiting, training, providing benefits such as health insurance, and providing perks such as cell phone reimbursement.
Some businesses may decide to lay off employees if they begin outsourcing work to independent contractors in order to save money. Many businesses prefer this option because the contracted individual is responsible for their own insurance and income taxes.
Guide on how to recover after a layoff
1. Don’t panic
First and foremost, resist the urge to succumb to stress and anxiety. A layoff is obviously upsetting, especially if you are supporting a family. But thankfully, and especially in today’s environment, there are numerous resources to help you get through this difficult time.
Your first step would be to apply for unemployment benefits. They exist specifically to help you get through a difficult financial situation, so take advantage of them. You will most likely require additional resources to get through the next few months.
2. Take a hiatus
Allow yourself time to decompress in the immediate aftermath of a job loss by taking a vacation of sorts. With fun and “active hiatus,” you want to get out of your own head. Go for a hike. Visit a campground. Take a kayaking trip. The first stage is healing.
Don’t make any major decisions in the first few days, and don’t rush into the job market the next day. You need time to reflect on what occurred and “how you feel about it.”
3. Conduct a financial analysis
Keeping track of your financial situation after a layoff is critical to reducing stress and anxiety. You should conduct an assessment that includes a breakdown of your household budget in relation to your severance and any other unemployment benefits. Determine how long you have to look for work — and give yourself as much time as possible.
Examine your spending habits and consider ways to save money. This should not be a one-man show. Include your immediate family members as well as anyone else who is financially dependent on you.
4. Explore opportunities
Before you make any networking calls or respond to job postings, you should gather your thoughts. Make sure your social media profiles are up and running, and that you have work samples ready. Then consider your job search in the broadest sense possible.
Contact former coworkers and friends who work for organizations of interest to you. Talk to those people to stay up to date on the latest issues and buzzwords. Consider the headhunters you know. Consider whether it is worthwhile to join a professional association.
Conclusion
Remember that what happens isn’t as important as how you react to it. So many things are beyond our control. Be patient, and don’t forget to take care of yourself. During this trying time, it’s critical to protect both your mental and physical health.
Rather than viewing the situation negatively, consider it to be what it truly is: a new beginning. And don’t worry because Boulo Solutions – an employment agency in Birmingham Al will always be here to help.
