5 Positive Ways to Approach Job Loss

Chances are you or someone you know is seeking a new career opportunity. And given the competitive job climate, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes the stress can activate a feeling-stuck mode, resulting in an increase in anxiety. However, there are five things you can do to help yourself get through this time.

1. Write about your job loss. In an article published in the Academy of Management Journal, researchers examined 63 individuals who lost their jobs and how expressive writing may impact their reemployment. In this case, expressive writing included writing about one’s thoughts and emotions concerning the prior job. The findings were fascinating—those who wrote about their job loss found a new job more quickly than those who did not write.

Also, writing can help you see your blind spots, and it can be therapeutic in the sense that no one is judging you. Journaling can also lead to new insights.

2. Practice sharing your story. When you practice with yourself first, it can result in fewer awkward moments. If people ask questions, keep in mind this isn't the time to badmouth your boss. If you’re focused on how unfair the career situation is, people are likely to be put off by your comments. Simply explaining that you were “cut” during a layoff explains a great deal, and then talking about what type of work you’re seeking can help others engage better with you. People can often tell a great deal about a person in how they handle a career setback.

Keep in mind that redirecting the attention toward others is another way to move things onward in a positive direction so that others don’t feel you’re hijacking the conversation.

3. Think about pertinent examples of your work experience. Sometimes it is challenging to network with others when you’re hyperfocused on your resume. Sharing a relevant work experience story can not only engage others but will also help to showcase your talent. While it is important not to come off as arrogant, exceptional work experience can tell others about your attitude and ability to do the work.

Personally, I know when I share how I stepped outside of my comfort zone and “cold-emailed” a foundation and established a relationship with them that resulted in a six-figure gift to an NGO, it is more impactful than simply stating I’ve done fundraising. When I share my story, people always ask questions, and this involves a fun way to engage them.

4. Seek new opportunities to meet people. When it comes to networking, one of the most important things is to put yourself in new places. If your social and professional groups are aware that you’re looking for a new job, then it is time to venture into new circles. This means being brave and actively searching for people to meet who aren’t part of your current network.

Start to think creatively. For example, if your friend is part of a group that includes people you don’t know, ask for an introduction or if you can be their guest at an event. You can explain that you’ll be happy to repay the favor. Many times people are more than willing to assist others without expecting anything in return.

5. Ask for help with your resume. With the increased use of technology to screen resumes, it is very important to use the appropriate words when describing yourself and your work history. Getting outside guidance for this will help you see your blind spots and can help shape the way you present yourself online.

Remember, your mindset can impact the way you feel about yourself and how you present yourself to others. You can just as easily talk yourself out of a new opportunity as you can stack the cards in your favor.