If you’ve been let go from your job it’s normal to go through bouts of denial, anger and depression. The key to setting yourself up for a brighter future is in moving from the initial negative feelings to a more productive state of mind. You accept what has happened and start looking forward instead of backwards. And you take care of your most valuable asset – you.
You are now in the sales and marketing business, and the product you are selling is you. So let’s get personal.
• Take a look around and be grateful for what you have. You probably have reasonably good health, a place to live, food to eat, people who care about you. Not a bad place for starting over.
• Write down your abilities and accomplishments. Include your technical and your interpersonal skills. Develop a short “commercial” to use when talking to people about your job search and during interviews. Being able to clearly and concisely describe your education, experience and skills will set you apart.
• Take a look in the mirror. Maybe you could lose a few pounds. Maybe your teeth could be whiter. Maybe you could use a hair cut. Spending some time and money on your appearance is one of the best investments you can make.
• Don’t lie around and feel sorry for yourself. Follow a daily schedule – work on your resume, make calls, do research, set up meetings and informational interviews. Add exercise to your routine.
• Avoid isolation. Keep up with your contacts and work to expand your network. Attend social and business events.
• Improve upon or learn new skills. Employers want workers who have multiple skill sets and are up to date with software applications.
• Consider the type of company you want to work for next, or whether you want to become a consultant, open a franchise or start up your own business.
