Laid Off without a Golden Parachute: 10 steps for a safe landing

Almost everyone knows someone who has lost a job recently. As it becomes more common, it is no less stressful. I’d like to suggest a few essential steps for a safe landing, even without the golden parachute.

1. Get letters of reference and recommendations from managers, supervisors, coworkers vendors and clients. Do this quickly; timing influences the results.

2. Gather your past performance reviews. These will help you create language for your resume and interviews.

3. Determine what may be negotiable. It may surprise you to know that people often are able to negotiate for an extension of paid health care coverage or severance.

4. Enhance your professional network. Are there non-proprietary business contacts whose contact information you should acquire before leaving?

5. Think about how you want to be remembered. Counter-productive behavior in the last day(s) can blow a stellar performance record.

6. Contact your coworkers: send a brief email. Let them know that “Thursday will be my last day. I’ll be back in touch” Let them know how to contact you. Get their personal email addresses .

7. Nail down health care. You may be eligible for assistance with COBRA under the recent stimulus package.

8. Register for Unemployment Insurance. While UI benefits are usually taxable, you may qualify for several weeks of non-taxable UI under the stimulus plan.

9. Look for your nearest One Stop Career Center. Go to www.careeronestop.com. These centers are paid for by your tax dollars and many offer a full menu of career transition services. Service vary from Center to Center, but don’t overlook this resource.

In my next blog, I will discuss how to create your flight plan that is workable and effective.

Watch for my free teleconference at www.rcmassociates.com