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Author Topic: help  (Read 2039 times)
chikky
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« on: February 12, 2008, 11:00:46 am »


I was informed today that I was going to be laid off (made redundant).  I was told it was not because of performance issues, but it was because of the work load (not enough work).  I knew it was coming, but I am still in a state of shock!  I have been in the administrative field for nearly 40-years and I have never been laid off.  I know I need to dust myself off and get out there and look.  My question is how do you deal with feeling like a reject?  My self confidence is at an all time low.  How do you keep your spirits up?

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gee4
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« Reply #1 on: February 12, 2008, 11:07:25 am »

Chikky,

First of all I am very sorry to hear that.  I have been there several times - it's like a death in way and you will go through all the emotions of being upset, downhearted, at a loss as well as angry.

Have they given you a date to go?
Can you use the time wisely to update your CV and register with agencies?  
Are you entitled to any redundancy?  
Will they write you a reference?

Once you have established some of this you will begin to take the next steps to do what you have to do.  Stay positive, you know you are not being laid off because of performance so don't put yourself down when applying for jobs or going for interviews....your company is downsizing due to a reduction in work.

As I have said, see if you can get some time off to register with agencies and if you need any help with updating your CV, please let me know.

I have survived several redundancies and I am still here to live the tale, stronger and more determined than ever.
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raindance
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« Reply #2 on: February 12, 2008, 11:14:27 am »

Being made redundant is something we hope will never happen. Unfortunately most of us will experience it at some time in our working lives. Our work is a big part of our lives.  When it is "taken away" from us it can be very worrying if one is not sure what to do or is concerned about money matters.

Many people are made redundant each year and no sector anywhere is "safe".  It is caused by any number of things: falling profits, increased competition, takeovers, mergers, technological advances, poor management and even criminal activity (there has been more than one firm hit the rocks here in the UK because someone had their sticky fingers in the till).

So ... what to do ...  

Remember that the post you occupied was made redundant - not you.  You, therefore, are not the problem;
Dust off your CV and brush up your skills if they need brushing up (sometimes a refresher training course is helpful);
Start scouring the jobs vacant pages in the newspapers and haul yourself round employment agencies;
Keep your spirits up by giving yourself little treats that maybe don't cost too much (walks in the countryside, meals with friends, a trip to the cinema - whatever you like doing).

I am sorry you have lost your job, Chikky, but wish you success in finding a new one.

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itsme_calista
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« Reply #3 on: February 12, 2008, 11:36:59 am »

I can't add anything that Gee and Raindance haven't but just to add my thoughts to theirs and wish you all the best.



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laurafmcdermott
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« Reply #4 on: February 12, 2008, 02:31:51 pm »

So sorry to hear this chikky.  When I was laid off several years ago, I took a few weeks to just relax, let it sink in, and take care of myself.  After that period (and I gave myself a firm deadline, so I wouldn't make a habit of it), I printed up my resume, took advantage of job counseling offered as part of my severance package, and started scouring the internet job boards.  I also began temping.  This supplemented my severance as well as kept my skills fresh:  and I ended up getting an excellent job through the assignment.

If you are getting a severance package, or can otherwise swing it, I would highly recommend just taking some time for you.  You deserve it!

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Atlanta Z3
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« Reply #5 on: February 12, 2008, 04:20:18 pm »

First off you are NOT a reject.  In the late 80's early 90's I got upsized, downsized, centralized and decentralized.  I felt like I was the jinx.  If I joined a company within a year something happened.  For me I put a positive spin on it - being an admin we can work in any industry and learn all kinds of things from all those different companies.  Find a good take away and focus on that.  Is there some major task in your personal life you have been putting off or want to do?  Do it now!
This also might be the time to look at a new start - is there another career you may want to try, or go back to school if possible.  You know the old saying if one door closes....  (and don't let age become an issue.)
Good luck

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chikky
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« Reply #6 on: February 12, 2008, 08:11:03 pm »

Thanks everyone for your input.  I am going to take some  time for myself and try to figure out my next steps.  Who knows....maybe this could be the best thing that could have happened.

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peaches2160
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« Reply #7 on: February 13, 2008, 03:09:59 am »

Just remember when one door closes, another door opens.  Alot of great advice has been given here.  Keep your chin up and think positive.

Good Luck.

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chikky
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« Reply #8 on: March 11, 2008, 04:07:34 pm »

I just wanted to let everyone know that I have been given a generous severance package.  So much so, I will not have to worry about a paycheck and benefits until the end of September!  Gives me the opportunity to "persue other opportunities."  Thanks for all of your input.  I am coming out of this feeling like a winner not a loser.

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gee4
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« Reply #9 on: March 11, 2008, 04:09:53 pm »

Chikky,

You are lucky than most - I never worked anywhere long enough to warrant any kind of decent severance pay.

Good luck with the job hunting.  If I were you I would be treating myself to a nice leaving gift....just a thought!
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raindance
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« Reply #10 on: March 11, 2008, 05:35:56 pm »

Chikky,

That's great news.  I'm so pleased you have enough to tide you over until the Autumn.  

Good luck for the future, and do step in here and let us know how you get on.

Best wishes,

Raindance

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laurafmcdermott
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« Reply #11 on: March 12, 2008, 07:41:59 pm »

That is wonderful!  What a relief that must be for you.  Best of luck!

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chikky
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« Reply #12 on: May 01, 2008, 05:49:34 pm »

I have gotten over the grieving period and have been on several interviews since the last time I have posted.  I have an interview tomorrow with a company that I really, really, really want to work for.  I have researched the company, practiced for those dreaded interview questions, planned what to wear, etc.  My question is, I just got my performance review m\from my current manager.  It was outstanding.  He gave me a copy that I want to use in a portfolio that I am building. Should I give them a copy of that a long with my resume and references?    To give me an edge?  

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raindance
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« Reply #13 on: May 02, 2008, 09:30:20 am »

Why not, Chikks?  That's a great idea as part of a portfolio.  This will prove that your company thought highly of you.

Good luck with the interview and let us know how you get on.

Best wishes,

Raindance

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