Laid off? Oregon State University career resources can help.
By Annemarie Allain, ’00
Whether because of economic shifts, corporate restrictions or political dynamics, it feels like news of another round of layoffs surfaces every day. The odds are high that you know someone or have been personally affected by this downsizing trend.
There are countless feelings that arise when your job is eliminated: You might be shocked, confused, destabilized, frustrated, disheartened. The list goes on. Pushing through and thriving after a layoff isn’t always easy, but you might be surprised at what you find on the other side.
We’ve pulled together five ways to help you (or a friend) overcome this obstacle.
- Know your rights.
According to Candor, an employee financial technology company, layoffs are a legal transaction, and you should never sign anything on the spot. Employers cannot require you to sign exit paperwork before being allowed to leave or withhold pay for not signing. While workers of all ages have federal — and in most cases state — protections, those over 40 have additional safeguards. The Older Workers Benefit Protection Act (OWBPA) requires a 21-day consideration period of all termination paperwork, one week to revoke your agreement and special considerations for group layoffs.
- Review your finances and budget.
Financial advisors suggest assessing any income sources you can immediately lean on, including emergency funds or finding a part-time job. It’s also a good time to review your budget and decide if there are things you can live without, like take-out meals, subscription services and memberships. Remember, it’s not a permanent cut, but a temporary move to make sure your money goes the distance.
- Acknowledge your emotions.
“While allowing yourself to feel and process the loss, do not let job loss define you,” shares Forbes. “A layoff does not determine your worth or future potential.” Of course, layoffs are difficult to process, and you should allow yourself to do that. Alongside some of the more practical steps, don’t forget to pause and consider whether you want to stay in the same industry or reinvent your career. Connect with your passions and strengths to decide how you move forward.
- Refresh your résumé and LinkedIn profile.
The foundation of your job search is a strong personal brand. Start by optimizing your LinkedIn presence and résumé, but ensure you’re updating with intention. Include concrete accomplishments using numbers (i.e., % increase, $ saved, # projects delivered) and make sure to include skill-related keywords from the job posting near the top of the page. On LinkedIn, tweak your headline and summary to highlight your know-how and capabilities. If you need help, check out Wisedoc résumé builder — an AI-powered tool, co-founded by Beaver alumni. It’s one of the valuable perks available to OSU Alumni Association members. Or submit your new résumé to the OSU Alumni Association career engagement director for a free review.
- Lean into your network.
The global job search engine, Indeed, recommends that you “Cast your net as wide as possible. Former colleagues, but also friends, family, neighbors and fellow alumni from your college, can help put you in touch with possible job opportunities.” Oregon State University and Alumni Career Services offer the following resources to help you do just that:
- 1:1 career consultations with Director of Alumni Career Engagement Karla Rockhold.
- OSU Connections, a Beavers-only online networking and career platform.
- OSU Ecampus continuing education opportunities.
- Ask Alumni career webcasts.