What To Do If You Think You're Going To Be Laid Off

Layoffs just keep coming. Sprint announced plans to let 8,000 workers go. Home Depot is firing 7,000 employees. Caterpillar announced they will lay off 20,000 people this year. Here in Omaha, First National Bank announced they are furloughing 350 employees.

In December 2008, the national unemployment rate rose from 6.8 to 7.2 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor. Unemployment hit 4 percent in Nebraska, with more than 39,000 Nebraskans estimated to be out of work in December.

If your job is next on the chopping block — or if you’re afraid it is — there are some steps you can take now that will help you find your next job faster.

• First, update your résumé. Do it now, while you still have access to internal data to quantify your accomplishments. Make sure you have hard copies of your performance reports and letters (or e-mails!) of appreciation from customers and colleagues.

You will want to start circulating your résumé right away as soon as you learn of layoffs (or even rumors of a downsizing). Have your résumé ready to go when that happens.

• Alert your network. Start assembling your network of contacts now so that when the ax falls, you can get the word out quickly. The first 30 days of unemployment are the most critical.

Don’t have a contact database yet? Start with your Christmas card list. Collect snail mail addresses, home/work/cell numbers, and e-mail addresses. Now is also the time to establish your social network online — sites like Facebook and LinkedIn will let you keep connected with personal and professional contacts.

While you’re at it, join a professional association or two — and get involved. You’ll learn about changes in your industry that may impact your company … and your job. You’ll also make valuable contacts in your field that may lead you to your next position.

• Improve your skills. You’ll be more valuable to your current employer — and more marketable to your future boss —if you update your skills. Enroll in a class; learn a new language; pursue a certification. Continuing education in your field can also expand your network.

• Start researching your next job. Prepare a plan of action that you can implement immediately. Identify companies you’d like to work for — even if they’re not actively advertising openings. Read trade publications, local business journals, and follow the Business section of the newspaper to identify companies that are growing and may need someone with your skills and experience.

“Don’t wait to see what will happen with your job — take action,” says Bridget Brooks, a Certified Professional Résumé Writer with Image Building Communications. “If you are laid off, you’ll be better prepared to start your job search immediately.”

— Bridget Brooks is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer and “Get Hired Now!™” Facilitator. In February, she will co-lead a four-week Employment Transitions group for unemployed professionals along with therapist Marla Cohen, MS, PLMHP. Bridget can be reached at (402) 393-4600 or via e-mail at OmahaJobHelp@yahoo.com.