No one wants to think about getting laid off, but the truth is that many are going to find themselves receiving a pink slip at least once in their life. If you're one of them, you're likely feeling like you want to flip over a desk and go into a panic, but neither of those things are going to help you better the situation. Stay calm, take a few deep breaths, gather your thoughts and prepare yourself for a new stage in your life. There are several things you should do immediately after getting laid off that can help you move forward.
Avoid getting stuck in a funk
It's easier said than done, but force yourself to stay in a positive frame of mind after you get laid off. Of course you're going to have moments when you feel down and discouraged, but it's not going to help anything if you stay that way. The more you try to make the best of the situation, the more you can think with a clear head and do what you need to in order to improve things.
Start looking for another job
Don't hold off sending out your resume. There's a good chance it will take you a couple of months to find a new position, so the sooner you get started on looking for one, the faster you'll land a new job.
Don't slack at your job
There are some who feel as though they can slack on their current job now that they got their pink slip. Considering your boss still has to give you a recommendation letter, it's best that you keep up your best work until the moment you walk out the door.
Work out your health insurance and appointments
When you get laid off, you have to decide quickly what to do about your health insurance. Make sure to look into COBRA, but another option if you're married is to see about going on your husband's insurance. If you've been stalling on making doctor appointments as many of us do, make them as soon as possible before your health insurance ends. Let the offices know about your situation and they may be willing to shuffle around the schedule to get you in sooner.
Take time to go over your severance package
Don't sign your name on the line as soon as you're handed the paperwork for your severance package. Take some time to read it over, talk to your husband about it if you so desire and consider talking to a lawyer who can help you weed through the jargon. Should you have any questions, don't hesitate to take them to your boss.
Let your contacts know your situation
Let your family, friends and coworkers know that you got laid off. You may feel embarrassed letting them know, but they're your best leads for finding a new job and giving you advice that's tailored to your particular situation. They can also lend you the support you need to get through the difficult time.
File for unemployment
It's going to take you at least a couple of weeks for you to get an unemployment check. Every state is different, so look into filing and get the process started as soon as possible.
It's easy to lose yourself in the upset of the situation, but keep your head up. Many I know who have received pink slips found that things actually worked out better for them in the long run. You never know what could come of a bad situation, so do your best to get through it and keep reminding yourself that things will work out the way they're supposed to.
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