* Job-Hunt.org Webmaster Susan Joyce offers advice on dealing with being laid off
Ford and DaimlerChrysler recently announced some very big job cuts. In addition, a number of other brand-name organizations like Blockbuster, Boeing, Johnson & Johnson, Liz Claiborne, Oracle and SBC also announced layoffs. Employment portal site Job-Hunt.org offers some advice in case you find yourself in that predicament.
Job-Hunt.org Webmaster Susan Joyce shares the following recommendations.
DO:
* Try to negotiate outplacement benefits such as severance, career coaching, resume preparation assistance, etc.
* Ask for details on continuing your medical insurance through COBRA. It allows you to participate for a specified period of time by paying your own premiums.
* Register for unemployment compensation immediately, even if you’ve been given severance pay. If you delay, you may no longer qualify.
* Make personal business cards and begin networking.
* Get help in your job search through a state career center or your alma mater.
* Ask your boss and colleagues for letters of recommendation.
* Give yourself time to deal with your feelings.
DON’T:
* Don’t take it as a sign of failure.
* Don’t consider yourself fired.
* Hide the fact that you’ve been laid off.
* Trash your former employer.
What about you? For those who have weathered a layoff in their careers, what advice would you share with your peers? Let me know at aschurr@nww.com
