Employee Disengagment - What would you do if you lost your job?

[Mathai Baker Fenn, Ph.D.]

I have lots of friends who are seriously worried about losing their jobs. It apears that we got used to the idea that a JOB is a core part of our identity. Not so long ago, "working class" was a derogatory term. Now it seems that it has come a full circle. For many people life without a job is unthinkable.

So lets think about the unthinkable! WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU LOST YOUR JOB TOMORROW?

[Terrence Seamon]

Mathai,

The "unthinkable" is the reality for millions of people right now, with many more to come before this downturn is over.

Re your friends who are seriously worried, here are a few ideas. I'm sure others will weigh in with more.

1. Don't let worry distract you from continuing to do your very best in your current job. There's nothing like high performance (which equals value to your employer) to fend off the swinging axe when it comes.

2. There's no time like the present to strengthen your skills as a networker, and proactively build your network. Don't wait until you are fired in a RIF to open Keith Ferrazzi's book. As someone once said, networking does not mean not-working.

3. Keep your resume up-to-date.


Terry

[Mathai Baker Fenn, Ph.D.]

The New York Times has an article that suggests that many people are turning towards setting up business for themselves. It seemed ironic because many of my friends who were on their own found that business is not easy to get. But they were largely working in the b2b space as trainers and consultants and their fortunes were dependant on other business firms. Instead, as the article suggests, perhaps they should focus on direct to customer services and products. Things that meet an immediate need. Read the article (above) for more about it.

[Scott H. Span, MSOD]

In fact a few of those close to me have indeed lost jobs recently. I myself was laid off back when the tech bubble burst. I agree with your input Terrence, and it is similar advice to what I gave to those who have lost jobs recently. I can't over emphasize the power of networking! Utilize all the tools and technologies at your finger tips, we have so many out there these days. Find networking groups and attend face to face events, reach out, reach out and reach out.

I also found that when I lost my job it was the perfect time to revaluate my career goals. I gave real thought to where I wanted to be and what I wanted to be doing and I developed a personal and professional strategic plan which has lead me to where I am today....doing the work I enjoy and being my own boss.

That said, money (or lack there of) can be a real motivator and a real stressor. When I lost my job I made a reduced budget and I stretched cash as far as I could. When it ran out, I swallowed my pride and got a part time job, which combined with unemployment insurance gave me enough to cover expenses and gave me the time to be diligent in my job search and direction.

[George Phipps]

These are some good tips. Basically I see it this way - If changes are happening within your organization you may have absolutely no control over what might happen. What you can control is how you deal with it.

If you see the writing on the wall then it is your choice about how you deal with it. You can wallow in pity, speculation, listen to the gossip mill and get yourself stressed out or you can start putting your own contingencies in place.

Examining your own mental models is a good start - if you understand why the changes are happening and validate or refute the rumours, and indeed your own assumptions, changes might be easier to deal with. With solid information you can make good decisions to move forward and look at ways you could adapt or work differently to keep yourself gainfully employed

One tip I would certainly suggest is that in this time of uncertainty it is a good idea to get your financial house in order. Have a safety net if you can, this will certainly reduce some of the stress should you suddenly find yourself unemployed.

I agree with Scott on the power of networking I also agree with keeping your resume up to date.

At the end of the day there is still work to be done, and while you are employed, it is a good idea to do the work you are being paid to do to the best of your ability. This will go a long way to maintaining your self-esteem and keep a positive attitude (which is what any new employer looks for)

Eating healthily and excercise are also good outlets to relieve stress as well as make you feel good about yourself. Try to achieve a work/life balance - you owe it to your family and more importantly to yourself.

Upwards and onwards.