Eight months ago Sangita Chawla* weighed about 85 kg. Despite this she had a dream of making it big as an airhostess. So the 24-year-old Mumbai girl went on a rigorous diet and exercise regime to cut out all the flab.
Within six months, Sangita was down to 50 kg and was all set for her dream job. She was hired by a leading aviation company, since she met all their requirements now.
Unfortunately for her, Sangita's job was one of the many her company decided to take away, but later give it back. "I'm thrilled to get my job back, but of course uncertainty still looms," confesses Sangita. She is not the only one. Across sectors there are fears of cost cutting and consolidation.
"Most people never predict a job loss," continues Aruna Sampat of HR consultancy firm Career Catalysts, "and are caught off guard when they get laid off."
Sampat cuts the jargon and tells you what you should do if you lose your job.
1. Don't panic
A job loss has nothing to do with performance, or your ability. It’s more about redundancy of your role in the company. Once this understanding seeps in, you will you be able to concentrate on finding a new job.
2. Make a list
Update your resume and follow a daily schedule. Now that you have time on hand, set aside at least five to six hours a day on job hunting – including research, calls, interviews etc. Make a list of the people and companies which can help you. Be specific on how they can help you.
3. Get aggressive
Make sure that you have your detailed resume up on every job portal there is. Some portals you can put your resume are jobstreet.com, monster.com, naukri.com, yellowjobs.com, timesjobs.com, shine.com etc.
4. Talk to other pros
Focus on what kind of job you want. Assess market situation and make your plan. If a role is interesting but the company is not so much a brand name, are you willing for a lateral move, or would you like to take a cut in salary for a brand? Think through. Talking to senior professionals may help to give you a perspective
5. Freelance
Do not hesitate to take up freelance assignments. Look at it this way. You will keep your skills up to date and it will bring home a few bucks. In the meanwhile keep hunting for a job.
6. Be transparent
Most people don't want to mention they have been laid off. “But hiding it will only complicate things," continues Sampat, "being laid off is not a taboo anymore amongst companies. They will hire you for your skills." So be transparent in your next job interview and tell them why you were laid off.
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7. No blame-game
Blaming the company or your luck during an interview is a strict no-no. Companies like hiring people with a positive outlook. After all, this can happen to any company.
8. Reference friendly
Make sure that you have all your references ready when you go for interviews and do not hesitate to give them if asked. Inform your reference in advance so that they are not caught unaware and will able to contribute in getting you a job.
9. Network
You have the time to go out, so make use of it. Network like crazy. Nothing has more impact than a meeting. Also make sure you follow up with your contacts so that they think of you the first time an opportunity springs up.
10. Stay healthy
Last but not the least you have to stay fit and keep healthy. Only this will keep you motivated and mentally fit.
"Getting a new job can take time – from a week to several months," continues Sampat, "but the real test is to stay put in these times and focus on sailing through this crisis."
Marcel R Parker, Chairman, IKYA Human Solutions Pvt Ltd , has some tips on how you can safeguard your current job.
1. Under promise and over deliver
Walk that extra mile for the organisation with a smile as though your life depended on it. You are bound to get noticed for your attitude. Stick to your targets and deadlines consistently.
2. Get proactive
Volunteer for new tasks/responsibilities, no matter how mundane or onerous they may be. Look at it this way- Can I add value to myself and my organisation by doing these tasks?
3. Get stingy
Try and find ways to save and reduce wasteful expenditure no matter how silly they may appear-this demonstrates concern for the organisation in hard times. For example, conserving energy, printing only what is essential, recycling water etc may seem petty but these costs if well managed can have huge saving potential.
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