Written by Princess Natasha (@natasha_balogun)
If you’re in the professional field, you already know that, unfortunately, layoffs are sometimes inevitable. Sometimes, a layoff can come unannounced, and other times the company might give you a heads-up about it; whichever is the case, you have to be prepared for it. So, here are the top 10 things you can do to prepare for a layoff before it happens.
Get a Resume Update
Ignoring your resume while you have a steady job is normal because there’s no urgent need to update it. But with a layoff at hand, it’s time to update your resume with your latest work experience and all the skills you may have picked up since your last employment.
Doing this will prepare you for the next phase, the job search.
How to write a winning tech resume
Save a percentage of your earnings
Setting up an emergency fund is essential because you don’t know how long you will be job hunting. You don’t want to be stranded with no way to pay your bills or eat while you search for a job. The percentage you have saved can help keep you grounded before you pick things back up.
Update your LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is one of the best platforms to search for opportunities. However, once you are sure there will be a layoff, update your work experience and change your profile to “open to work.”. That will show recruiters you are now available for job opportunities when they check out your profile.
Add completed Projects to your portfolio.
Are there projects you handled while you had your job? Now is the best time to update your portfolio. Include your recent work experience and all the minor and major projects you’ve handled since you were employed.
Do you need a resume review? Email: Info@dcowmember.com
Prepare an action plan
An action plan will keep you from worrying about what comes next. List what you will do for the first two months after the layoff. For example, will you acquire a new skill, travel, apply for jobs, or travel? Whatever the case, have a solid plan for what you want to achieve immediately after the layoff.
Search for Freelancing Opportunities
As long as you are skilled, you must have freelancing opportunities; all you have to do is search. Then, while you apply for jobs at your preferred companies, you can freelance; who knows, you might love it.
Negotiate
Many companies prepare severance packages for employees to be laid off. If you believe you deserve something, don’t hesitate to ask for it! Negotiate higher severance pay or a benefit before the layoff; it is your right to do so.
Up your Networking game
It’s always a great idea to stay connected with people who can be helpful in your job-seeking journey. Exchange contacts and keep in touch with executives you’ve had the opportunity to network with. Also, seek networking opportunities and put yourself out there; you never know what’s waiting.
Don’t Panic
Panicking only makes things worse than they already are. Rather than panic, write down your plans and set goals you want to achieve before getting a new job. This will help you keep things under control.
Start Job Searching
Don’t wait until you receive the layoff letter before applying for jobs! Instead, start as soon as you get information about the possible layoff. This will help you to stay ahead of the game, and you might even get an offer before the layoff happens.
Do you need a resume review? Email: Info@dcowmember.com