Dealing with Downsizing

“Good morning, boss, I’ve got an idea!”

“Yeah…well…sorry but we’ve eliminated your position.”

Yikes…blindsided by downsizing! What do you do?  How do you go about it?  Where is your head?

Losing your job through no fault of yours is one of the toughest parts of today’s business world. Here are a few of my recommended steps to recovering:

Step #1: Create your Personal Mission Statement

I‘m amazed about the power of this. Be clear about what you want your next position to be. Declare what is dearest to you with your work and the difference you want to make in the world. Use this as a measure when you are presented with new positions. Do the positions offer what is in line with your mission or, will you have to make compromises? 

Step #2: Create your Job Description 

Declare the precise duties for which you want to be held accountable. Base this on the skills you have that you enjoy and that will add value to a company. Include skills you want to develop further so that you are challenged by the position.

Step #3: Create a Project 50

What companies have your ideal position? Find out and create a list of the top 50 companies for which you would enjoy working. Complete the diligence with regard to their mission statement, corporate direction, key executives, etc. Use social media, especially LinkedIn, to learn what you can about the company, how it presents itself online and relevant background information about the key executives you’ll need to know. Send your resume/CV to those executives, requesting an interview and be respectfully tenacious with follow up.

Step #4: Create Your Networking Campaign

Who do you know who could help you? Create a list of executives you have a relationship with and invite them to coffee. Explain your situation and desire to understand their world and what their viewpoint of the current marketplace is.

Ask your contacts these questions when you meet:

1. How do you see the marketplace now? 
2. What challenges are there?
3. What projects are you working on now?
4. Whats exciting this year?
5. What opportunities do you see?
6. How would you go about sourcing them?

These questions illustrate your interest in someones’s expertise and opinion. It should open up a conversation that is about advancing your efforts towards your next career step.

I certainly hope you don’t find yourself in the scenario where you’ve been unexpectedly let got but, if you do, take it as an opportunity to find even more fulfilling work that will reward you in multiple ways.

Let me know how I can help!