What to do when Job Change Happens to You!

Sometimes job changes are made by choice, but often they’re forced upon us through lay-offs or a company merger. Even if you survive a lay-off, your position will probably change as you absorb the responsibilities of your former colleagues. In either case, it’s naïve to think that job change won’t affect you at some point in the new future.

It can be devastating to be laid-off unexpectedly; however, don’t spend your time dwelling on the past. Instead, focus on your future. Actually, you can give yourself one week to mope. Then, dust yourself off and start networking. In today’s hyper world of too many expectations, it can be challenging to keep in touch. However, it’s time to restore those connections whether they’re in your desired field or not.  We’ll discuss networking in depth in next week’s blog; however, according to the US Department of Labor Statistics, 70% of all jobs are found from networking, NOT by blind resume submissions.

Meanwhile, while you’re looking for a job, focus on keeping your spirits up; go to the gym, take long walks, do yoga, have a cocktail…. do what it takes to keep a positive attitude. Focusing on the negative only creates a downward spiral and is counterproductive to finding your new gig.  Understand that finding a job is a job and it may take a while.  So do whatever it takes to keep your confidence level high.

Resume writing is an art form anymore and there are TONS of articles you can peruse on how to craft a resume that properly highlights your talents. It’s cliché, but true: it’s easier to write about your work while you’re working. That said, a lot of us procrastinate until it’s needed. Here are a couple of interesting templates on constructing your resume based on your circumstances:

• If you’re staying in the same field, use the professional resume template, also a standard go-to if you’re not sure where to start.
• If you’re changing fields, use the job changer resume that focuses more on your professional achievements and skills and less on employment history.
• If you’re returning to your academic field, use an academic resume that focuses on your educational history.

If you find yourself unable to find a new gig in your current profession or you have a job and you’re miserable, perhaps it’s time to consider changing careers. Do you have a secret passion? Do you yearn to pick up a hobby long dormant? What do you really enjoy doing day to day? Perhaps now is your chance to think outside the box and dare yourself to pursue your dreams. Consider the Wall Street worker turned whoopie pie maker, or the civil engineer turned chocolatier. The key is to try lots of things and see what makes you happy. From there, research how to monetize that passion, even if it takes time to achieve. There is no time like the present to get started on the next chapter in your life.

In next week’s blog, we’ll delve deeper in to how to effectively network as it’s such an important part of your personal change equation.