These days, almost everybody feels uncertain about jobs. Fear can lead to paralysis or panic, which in turn lead to bad decisions and searches for a quick fix. Here are five tempting actions that are best to avoid.
Mistake #1: Hiring a firm to “blast” your resume to a thousand or more prospective employers. These programs do not get people jobs and they may actually backfire. Employers can spot these campaigns a mile away. You’ll be branded as naive, desperate or worse.
Mistake #2: Paying anyone who promises to get you “in front of” potential employers. The only people who can do this legally are recruiters. They are paid by employers, not by job seekers.
Mistake #3: Sharing your story with online chat groups and forums. You never know who will be signed on. Some people have gotten jobs through these sources but you must move slowly and carefully.
Mistake #4: Investing time trying to hold on to what’s gone. If your boss (or boss’s boss) has the power to decide your future, then of course it pays to do all the right things: putting in face time, going the extra mile, taking on projects that add to the bottom line.
But we have all met dozens of people who said, “My division was sold. My job will definitely be gone in six months.” And they’re still working long hours. My favorite story: A friend actually attended an all-day training session, knowing her job would be gone in 3 months.
Mistake #5: Waiting to mobilize a support team. When you feel stressed, it’s easy to spend time sharing horror stories with colleagues and friends. A true support team won’t let you dwell on what went wrong. You will be encouraged to take action and move forward. You will be encouraged to recognize your strengths and build new confidence.
We tend to know our true support team when times are tough. And sometimes we have to face the hard task of choosing to let go of downers to be with strong, positive people. You may find yourself reaching out to new friends and recognizing the hidden qualities of family members.
You can also bring in professionals: coaches, therapists, financial advisors and more. Recruiters, colleagues and prospective employers can support you, but you are always “on.” Find a place where you can let go and talk honestly. That way you’re more likely to present your game face when you most need it.
This article came from my ebook – just $9.97 – Guide to Surviving a Layoff. Download from the Reports page.