The Career Doctor’s Cures & Remedies: "How
do I go about looking for a new job after being fired/terminated/downsized?"
by Randall S. Hansen,
Ph.D.
Let
me first state that the chances are quite good that at least once in your life you are going to be dismissed from your employer
-- no matter how well you perform or how nice a person you are... companies go through cycles, and every few years (especially
in a weak economy) they reduce their workforce. I know that my comments don’t help take much of the sting from their
actions, but my point is that you can't sit around being discouraged -- you need to use the time to evaluate your career and
get back into the job market.
I
suggest you take the time you've been given for a career tune-up:
- Decide
on a career path or change. Take the time to decide whether it’s time for a career change or simply a job change.
- Tune
up that resume. If you haven’t kept your resume current, now is the time to spend some critical time getting it in shape.
Consider these resume resources.
- Resolve
whether you are staying or relocating. It’s the perfect opportunity to evaluate where you want to work and live.
- Network,
network, network. It can’t be said enough…networking is the best way to find a new job, and even though it may
be difficult facing your network after being fired, you have to do it. Learn more about networking.
- Revisit
your references. Besides keeping your references informed that you are back in the job market, it's also a good time to evaluate
your reference list.
- Be
prepared to work. Okay, I acknowledge it’s a cliché, but looking for a new job is hard work - and you better be prepared
to put in the hours necessary to line up a few new job offers.
- Face
the tough question. Why were you dismissed? Word gets around. At least be prepared to answer why you left your previous job…
and never, ever blame a former supervisor or employer -- and don’t make excuses.
- Be
prepared for rejection. It’s natural to be a little sensitive during these times, but you need to develop a thick skin
and deal with the degree of rejection that occurs in any job search. Keep looking forward.
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