Scared to be laid off, need support

15 Comments

1. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 9:58AM UTC

   I’m sorry you are going through this.
   Honestly, the only thing you can do- is to be proactive. You are already applying to jobs and networking. I would just do it with more vigor. I would spend some money and hire a career coach to skim over your resume, and guide you on next steps. Then relax. You might not be laid off after all. All these anxiety is not good for your health. In any way, if you get laid off, you will get some severance and be entitled to unemployment benefits to help you out financially as well.

2. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 10:46AM UTC

   Could you get your foot in the door in a larger company in a entry level job then apply to one’s later?

3. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 1:40PM UTC

   Normally you’re over experienced in those cases and wouldn’t be hired since you wouldn’t be seen as a fit for the role. Could you work with contractor recruiters and find contract to hire or at least temporary contractor positions until you find something permanent?

4. Megan LeasherApril 17,2023 at 12:08PM UTC

   I am sorry you are finding yourself here; it is a scary place to be. Your mindset is crucial...focusing on positivity, calm, and only the things you can control are vital. You will get through this! Lean in on others for support and kind words.

5. Amy CollinsApril 17,2023 at 12:18PM UTC

   Taking action and having a plan can help ease anxiety. Find some time to yourself in the morning and list some actions you can take today, this week, and this month. This might include shoring up your savings account and reducing expenses where possible. You may want to plan to meet one new person for coffee, join a networking group, and update your LinkedIn profile. Sleep is your best friend! Good luck!

6. Paulla Fetzek, MSEdApril 18,2023 at 1:08PM UTC

   Hello!

   First of all, I'm sorry for the stress you're facing. I was laid of in 2003 (20 years ago for me too!). It was frustrating through liberating as I truly hated my job back then. I was off work 6 weeks before I found another job and it felt like an eternity.

   The job I took back then is the one I'm still at. I just celebrated the start of my 20th year here. I am always worried about what would happen should I lose my job. Mainly because I have no wish to return to this type of work at all.

   I'll offer this: My company is in the Hardware Industry. Unfortunately, sexism does still exist, I've been a victim of it more than once. However, I don't see ageism. Many of my coworkers are in their latter 60s, and I know others within this industry that are even older.

   All the best...

7. AnonymousApril 18,2023 at 4:56PM UTC

   While for some companies - youth is preferred (gaming companies as an example), most are focused on experience. I had the same concern as you but have found my age is not a restrictor and I'm either your age or older.

   I wouldn't wait for what could be your predicted layoff. While it may not happen, it's still a good idea to create your resume, and start to apply to roles that are a good match. Start now, as if you were laid off. I was recently laid off, and I honestly was not shocked and should have started my search sooner.

   You should customize your resume for each role you apply to. Ensure you use the keywords in the job posting. If a cover letter is allowed, ensure it focuses on the value you believe you will bring to that company.

   Be patient. Unlike 20 years ago... technology is used to sort resumes, it's easier to find and apply to jobs, many are remote so the talent pool is larger. I don't know your role, but if you can, and work on site today, focus on the jobs that require employees be on-site or hybrid. It will have a much smaller pool and will likely get you an interview.

   I would select jobs that excite you and you believe you'll be passionate about. Put the effort into those applications (customizing). vs Sending out the same resume to multiple postings. Keep a list! Recruiters are refreshing postings that show they were "just added" but have been up for a month. Either use one of the job board platforms to track or just use your own excel sheet.

   Good Luck

8. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 12:33PM UTC

   There are support systems out there. Use them. There are strong networks, that I hope you have already become part of. Use them. Finally, there are companies (like Right Management) that are in the business of helping people make transitions. If your current company offers that, USE IT. If not, look at the programs anyway, and make a decision as to whether you can afford to pay for the services, insight, and support, personally. Then use it. Good luck. This can be a marvelous time of self-evaluation and introspection. Use it as an "adventure" in self-assessment, and what you truly want to do, next. When you come out, on the other side, you will have benefited, if you treat it that way, in my opinion and experience.

9. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 12:49PM UTC

   There are things you can control and those you cannot. Sounds like you are doing a great job being proactive and you have some helpful tips from prior comments. I highly recommend the book 'Never Search Alone' by Phyl Terry which has helped me tremendously. Losing a job is a roller coaster, no doubt about it - but you control how you experience it.

10. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 1:21PM UTC

    Please have faith and keep applying. Use linkedin, indeed, zip recruiter, monster. Google online career workshop for hiring and stay consistent.

11. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 6:11PM UTC

    Keep networking and putting your feelers out there. Definitely take a breath though as when you interview you might be leaching out that desperation into your conversations. Try scripting out the why that you are looking, it might be something like - " my current company is stagnant and the growth potential simply no longer exists so I am looking for something more dynamic in a company where there is good upside". Go to some meetups, reach out to those in your circle for guidance on companies that they know that could use your skills. You got this, don't live in fear...lead with your inner strength.

12. Farah BajwaApril 19,2023 at 6:25PM UTC

    I've been laid off three times - basically that's saying I've been laid off from every company I've worked for. Its not fun; very ungrounding but I've always found myself going on to something better. Focus on what is in your control (networking, resumes, etc) and trust that the rest will fall into place.

    I have an irrational fear that i'll end up on the street but that's never been true - focus on the blessings: I have family to catch me, some savings to tie me over, etc. Its tough but focus on what you have vs what you "may" lose.

13. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 10:38PM UTC

    You're doing all the right things and being proactive. That's all you can do. I've been laid off often enough that I can tell you there is no point in worrying about what hasn't happened or what you think will happen. If it does, you're only making yourself live through it twice. Now what's the point of that? I've landed safely after each ending and you will, too!

14. AnonymousApril 20,2023 at 2:35AM UTC

    I was laid off after 16 years in 2015. I worked at a couple of different companies and was able to rejoin the first company in 2022. I learned the skills I gained are transferable, I learned new skills and I understand that my God is my source. It is normal to be anxious but know there are opportunities and you have to be patient. Take it one day at a time and trust there is a plan for your life. Wishing you a calm mind and a courageous spirit

15. Crystal HowellApril 20,2023 at 10:04AM UTC

    Just breathe, You have your resumes out. Check with your local temp agencies to see if they have any attractive positions. Check with the competition for openings, interview the company, growth plan, promotion policy, slow down. Now is a good time to consolidate debts, while employed. Good luck, check LinkedIn sales navigator to speak to the decision makers. Good luck