How To Handle When You Lose Your Job

So you lost your job. Whether you were fired or laid-off, your first reaction to losing your job will most likely be shock, followed by anger. You might be tempted to tell your boss where he can shove his briefcase. But it's a bad idea. Keep your mouth shut and follow these six steps to prevail during this difficult time.

1. Negotiate a severance package

   Many companies will give you at least two weeks' severance pay. Some will give you up to a year's pay, depending on whether you were fired or laid-off. If possible, contact other employees who were previously let go and ask them how much they received when they left the company. This way you'll know what's fair and have a monetary value to shoot for.

2. Ask for references

   Your direct boss and other company executives you worked with should be willing to provide you with a positive reference or recommendation. Your former employer will be reluctant to say or write anything negative about your work performance, unless you were actually charged with a crime. Make it easy on your boss, and volunteer to write a letter of recommendation yourself that he can review and sign.

3. Leave with class

   You might feel like you were treated unfairly and did not deserve to be let go. But hold your head up high, and with a smile on your face, thank your boss for the opportunity he gave you to work at his company. Then walk out the door, never to return, and don't look back.
   Your employer will respect you for the way you've handled this difficult experience. And you'll leave him thinking about the great employee he lost. You never know when a new job opportunity with your boss might arrive at another company in the future.

4. Have a little fun

   Before you start looking for a new job, take at least a week to relax and recharge your batteries. Commiserate with your buddies over drinks or coffee. Take that vacation you never had time for before.

5. Hit the pavement for a new gig

   Update your resume and go get a job. Aside from applying the traditional way by sending out resumes, post it on career sites like CambodiaWorks.com and let employers come to you.
   
   Once you start getting interviews, don't announce to potential employers that you were fired. Don't lie, but don't volunteer information regarding why you left your previous job. If they ask, use one of the following phrases to explain:

   • "I was downsized in corporate restructuring;" or
   • "My department was shut down."
     

6. Use this time to improve yourself

   While you're looking for a new job, use your free time to improve yourself and improve your chances of finding a job. Avoid detrimental, time-wasting activities such as watching TV and drinking beer during the day.

   Instead, do something productive. Learn a new language to help widen your job opportunities. Take a class on public speaking to improve your speech skills. Attend networking events in your chosen field, where you can meet people who know of job openings. Or, find an unpaid internship in a new career area you're interested in. It might lead to you being hired on in a paid position.

   Write that novel you've always dreamed of. And focus on your health by working out and eating well.

   Finally, don't become sad. Regular exercise will help you stave off depression, improve your mental clarity and enable you to focus on your job search. Upgrade your personal style and wardrobe to present a professional image for yourself. You'll feel better, look better and gain more confidence.

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