This is a difficult subject to think about, and we hope that you don’t find yourself in this position. However, layoffs in Canada and more specifically in Alberta are sweeping through many industries and, may impact the future of your job. So, today, we want to offer some suggestions on what to do when you are laid off from work.
In a recent study conducted by Capterra, individuals employed by small or medium-sized organizations were asked if they had seen job reductions and nearly 31% reported layoffs in the last twelve months. Additionally, 36% reported layoffs in Quebec, 32% were reported by British Columbia, 30% by Ontario and in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and in Manitoba 24% reported layoffs. The industries that suffered the most were the construction and technology sectors. According to an article from The Globe and Mail, “Tech talent is still in high demand – LinkedIn lists more than 13,000 job openings for “software engineer” in Canada.”
If you do find yourself in a position where you are forced to find a new job, there are some things you can do to help.
Take some time
The shock of losing your job, expected or not, is always challenging. Allow yourself time to grieve and reflect on the time spent in your previous position. This will help you work through your emotions in a healthy way, rather than bottling them up and feeling continued sadness or resentment. Talk to friends, family, and network connections about your feelings, and lean on the support of your trusted inner circle.
“Someone may not be able to control being laid off, but it will only cause more harm to hold all those thoughts and feelings in. Loved ones may not be able to provide a solution or offer employment, but just speaking about one’s feelings can provide tremendous relief.”
–Amber Robinson, verywell mind
Make a plan
Once you have processed your emotions, you will be better equipped to hit the ground running toward your new goals. Reflect on what you enjoyed, and what you didn’t in your previous role. What do you want from your future organization? What skills and experience have you gained that will help you secure a new job? Write down your specific accomplishments and achievements, which will benefit your job search as well as your mindset. Next, start researching different career opportunities, and decide which ones you would like to apply for. Set attainable goals for yourself to help along the way and stay organized with your job search.
Creating a schedule, like you would with a job, will help keep you on track. This could include how often you wish to network, when you will search for open positions, and the time spent submitting job applications and your resume.
Refresh your resume
Once you have planned and compiled a list of jobs to apply for, your next step is to look at your resume. In some cases, you might not have looked at your resume in several years. Realistically, if it has been longer than two years, it is time to refresh your resume. You will have gained valuable skills and expertise in your previous role, so ensure those accomplishments are included. You also want to make sure that your resume is Applicant Tracking System (ATS) friendly.
Our team of professional resume writers have worked with many clients in this situation, and our priority is to work alongside you to ensure we provide the best resume possible. We can also support you through the interview process, and any other steps along the way.
We understand the complexities that are involved in a layoff. Between navigating your emotions, to establishing a plan, it can feel overwhelming. However, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact Resumes with Results and let us help provide the support you need to navigate your next chapter.