I Have Lost My Job, What Now?

With a global economic downturn over the past three months, many of us have lost our jobs, faced salary cuts, or been asked to use our annual leave, transitioning to unpaid leave to retain employment. Employers are currently assessing their finances, and in many cases, the results are troubling. They will need to take immediate steps for the company's survival, and unfortunately, employees often become the unintended targets.

1. How Urgent is the Need?

If you're not actively seeking a job and are currently employed, consider pausing your job search. Instead, focus on acquiring new skills or deepening your expertise rather than solely adhering to your employer's expectations. Strengthen your job security and solidify your position.

If you're unemployed, don't view your next job as the ideal one. It might be temporary until you find a new role. You may need to accept a job simply to cover your expenses.

While many industries and companies are struggling, some sectors are thriving. Yes, you heard that right. You may want to learn more about these opportunities.

2. Get Comfortable Networking Online

Join online platforms and professional groups to share experiences, articles, and support others. Publish content in your areas of expertise to enhance your personal brand and help future employers see your work. Consider online video training on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.

Network with like-minded professionals and experts to learn from them, which will benefit you in the long run.

3. Stay In Touch

Working remotely might have distanced you from hiring managers, influencers, and decision-makers, including your own hiring manager. Reach out to them to understand the recruitment situation with your current or previous employers, or past recruiters you have interacted with. Seek feedback that could assist you in securing a job.

Ensure you show a considerate attitude. Instead of asking for help, inquire if there's anything you can do for them.

4. Gather Intelligence Reports

Observing how a company treats its employees during a crisis reveals a lot about its culture and leadership. Do they offer extended remote work options and necessary support? Did they extend working hours or increase communication to check on employees and their families? Or did they terminate employees through impersonal messages?

Set up Google alerts for the latest news about companies. How people are treated speaks volumes about a person or a company.

5. Use the Time to Reflect

Avoid jumping at the first job offer. Reflect on your options, your desires, your family's needs, and any potential career changes. Are you satisfied with your job, or are you working just for the paycheck? As businesses and economies slow down, take a moment to reassess your goals.

6. Boost Your Skills

There are numerous free training courses available. I've pursued digital marketing, from basic to advanced SEO, content creation, and link building, improving significantly over the last three months. The world is becoming more digital, and you can find resources to enhance your skills and knowledge for both your career and family.

Explore free online courses like EdX classes (offering MIT and Harvard courses), and Microsoft training and tutorials. Discover free digital marketing courses from Neil Patel to Semrush

By laying the groundwork now, you can open doors and rekindle relationships once the crisis is over.