Layoff Woes-How To Manage A Laid Off Partner

September 25, 2008

Managing Layoffs Everyone dreams big-success, recognition, money and happiness. A slight misbalance can disrupt the whole planning. Layoff is a global issue. With the turmoil in the world market, people in every continent are affected by it and so are their families.

Layoffs seem to happen suddenly but the one who keeps an eye on the economy and the world market knows how to prepare themselves for the worst.

Managing Your Career Before and After A Layoff

1) Always be updated on the global economic news and reviews.

2) Find out what your company’s stand in the marketplace.

3) Organize and update your bio-data. Keep a list handy of all your recommendations, appraisals and performance records.

4) List the projects that you have undertaken over the years with its success rate. Note your role and how you reached the goal, working in tandem with others. This will help you analyze your strengths and weaknesses. It will also direct you to other possible avenues in the job market.

5) Make use of the benefits and perks that comes in your remuneration.

6) If you have been assigned a spending account then turn in all the outstanding claims to avoid forfeiting any balances.

7) Keep a note of your sick leaves and vacations.

8) Spread your wings and be well networked. It pays rich dividends to know the right people.

9) Keep an eye on the classifieds and be updated on the employment opportunities on various websites. You can also forward your CV with head hunters.

10) When you are hit with the news of a sell-off, a takeover or re-structuring of your company don’t take sides. Be objective and review the policies. Don’t jump to conclusions or sign anything just because others are doing it.

How To Manage A Layoff Partner:

1) Be supportive.

2) Don’t bombard him with questions about what happened at the office.

3) Give him time and space to open up and share the news with you.

4) Avoid comparing him with his colleagues or neighbors who have been laid off.

5) Don’t remind him of the daily expenses, the loans and mortgages that need to be paid.

6) Support and encourage him.

7) Avoid making remarks on how you have to cut down on the budget henceforth. If you feel that you need to curb your expenses then do so on your own.

8) Stop blaming him or his capabilities.

9) Take up a part time job until he decides his next step.

10) Be by his side so that he doesn’t have to go through this setback alone. These are stressful times and being understanding can help him overcome his depression or lack of self esteem.

There is no easy solution to layoffs but one needs to understand, compromise and act wisely.