When you are impacted by a layoff, it can legitimately feel worse than you had even imagined. It can be hard for friends or family to relate to what you’re going through unless they’ve been through it.
These days, it’s not uncommon for an employer to lay off workers with no notice and no severance. It’s like a breakup, except there may also be an immediate loss of income, healthcare, and other benefits.
On top of the financial loss, there is often a loss of identity. Until it happens, many people don’t think about how much of their identity is tied up in work. But, if you’ve worked at your company for fifteen years, for example, you may be used to introducing yourself with your job title. It’s who you are, and what you do every day. It’s where your friends are.
A sudden lack of purpose and structure can get anyone down. Even those who are the most resilient may find themselves in a slump. And, it’s an easy thing to have happen. When applying for jobs, it may feel like there are countless applicants for very few jobs openings.
In an effort to be supportive, a friend or family member will often offer advice. Sometimes, that advice is that you should consider becoming self-employed. You could make your own hours, and earn way more money. And, it would be easier than finding a job, right? Think again.
Being self-employed is a tremendous amount of work. This is especially true early on in your entrepreneurial journey. Sure, other business owners make it look easy. This is because they don’t want to be perceived as a failure. They want their business to appear to be on solid ground. The reality is that being an entrepreneur is hard work. Rarely can you get by with just one client. Typically, you need at least five clients at any given time.
Imagine how hard it is to find one job. Then, multiply that times five. And, subtract out things like business expenses. Plus, there will also be times that you may make no money at all, such as over holidays.
Don’t get me wrong. For some people, entrepreneurship is in their bones. If that’s you, you probably already know it.
For everyone else, keep applying to job openings. Keep revising your resume. Keep updating your LinkedIn profile. Keep scheduling networking meetings. I know it’s hard. But, eventually you will find one job. And, that one job will likely provide more stability and more money in the long run than being self-employed.
I know it’s hard. Starting over always is. But, the only way is to go through it. Keep going.
I hope these tips have helped you. Visit CopelandCoaching.com to find more tips to improve your job search. If I can be of assistance to you, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.
Happy hunting!
Angela Copeland
@CopelandCoach
