5 Reasons why getting laid off doesn't (always) suck

In light of the recent spate of layoffs nationwide, this post, written back in 2016, is very timely right now. 

First off, let me be very clear...it's never fun to get laid off, or be part of a Reduction In Force (RIF), or downsized/rightsized or, to use the UK term, be redundant. Any way you brand the action...It.Still.Sucks.

Lots of feelings go through your head after the deed is done. There's a great article highlighting the Five Stages of Grief in a job loss. And even after some time, the Acceptance stage can be hard to overcome. 

However, there's some great advice on what to do if you do get laid off, whether it's immediate things to do, or how to bounce back, or even recognizing that getting laid off is like a boost to your career.

As someone who has gone through this several times (both giving and receiving the news), I've gotten some additional insight into it too.  

1. Getting laid off puts things into perspective

The image at the top was in the Dallas, TX area years ago, during one of the worst heat waves at the time; 30+ days of 100-degree weather. Some pretty lousy news--and yet, there was still time for fun, something to enjoy. Is it the end of the world? Of course not. Will you find something else, yes you will. Will it take some time? It might. But when you recognize that, many of the initial pressures will start to fade. This article highlights putting your problems into perspective.

Like riding a roller-coaster, once you've been through a layoff, the second time around can seem like a cake-walk. Does it still suck? Yes, but it won't feel as bad. 

2. It allows you to find new opportunities

I love this quote from Einstein: "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity."

Having the time off (and you should see it as that) gives you a chance to see what you want to do...or don't want to do with your career. Doing things like volunteering, networking, working on a hobby or just reconnecting with old contacts will give you the chance to uncover things that you didn't think would exist.

Here's another great read on finding opportunities includes doing things like taking a trip or getting back into shape. 

For me, with the free time, I had a chance to attend seminars and speak at networking events that gave me great leads to a new job. If I was working, I likely would not have had time to attend. So make the time to get out and "uncover" those stones.

3. To move forward, you don't need to look backward

In layoffs, what's done is done. There's no need to rehash the questions "Why me?" or "Why now?" or spend energy on determining the causes. Instead, triage it, look at it as a Monday-morning quarterback and determine the best moves for next time.

A great mentor of mine would tell me after a bad sales call: "David, the past does not shape the future. What can you do now with this information, in light of what happened?"

4. Recognize your strengths and weaknesses

Looking for a new job is a full-time job. Which is why many experts suggest you should always be open to looking at new opportunities as you conduct the search. And while these new things may not always be in your industry or area of expertise, don't jump at the first thing that comes your way. Know what your flaws are. It's been suggested to do a personal SWOT Analysis on your career. 

Asking questions like "What skills have you worked to develop?" or "What would other people see as your weaknesses?" are invaluable to assess the next career move. For me, my time-management skills still need to get worked on regularly, and that self-awareness makes me use Outlook Calendars like a fiend.

Once you've done a SWOT, you can realistically assess the position and determine if the job is something you can really do and not just want to do. ("Fake it til you make it" fans, take note however)  

5. Get those 'to-do' lists finally done

Whether it's getting your financial house in order, or the 'honey-do' lists around the house, keep getting things accomplished. This keeps your mind busy and could be a creative process as well.

After one layoff many years ago, I remember doing something brainless like detailing my car every two weeks--polish the wheels and tires, degrease the engine, even wash the floor mats--stuff I would never regularly do. But yet, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Was it worth it? Well, I knew I had the shiniest car in the parking lot during any job interview. 

Remember, finding a job is full-time work. As you start your "job to find a job" make sure that you're getting some things checked off your list that will help you get your mojo back. Alot of things here will convert into #2 on the list, uncovering opportunities.

Finally, I encourage everyone to go through their own "Stages of Grief" --recognizing that while it does 'suck' to be let go, know that this change will create a new you.

All opinions are my own and do not reflect or express the views or opinions of my employer.