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MAY
- JUNE 2001
Engineering
Trends
Making
the Most of Being Laid Off
by Todd
Yuzuriha
As
the economic downturn continues, it seems like engineering layoffs are
being announced daily. The good news is that
displaced workers are finding new positions 37 percent more quickly than
they did a year ago, according to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray
& Christmas. This is the shortest median job search time in the 15
years they have tracked it.
Change Can Be Positive
Perhaps you’ve seen
the writing on the wall at your company. Financials were not looking
good, your department was not getting much support, or your project got
canceled. In these cases, layoffs can lead to positive change. Your old
position might have been heading toward a dead end, especially in light
of the volatile economic situation. Layoffs can be springboards to a
fresh start.
Analyze What You Want
in Your Next Job
Whether you anticipate
a layoff in your near future or have already been pink-slipped, take
this time as an opportunity to analyze what you really want to do next.
Look at what you enjoy doing and assess your strengths and weaknesses in
your field of interest. As you uncover weaknesses, develop a plan to
overcome them.
Don’t Be Afraid to
Get Help
If you need more
knowledge, read books on the subject area, attend professional meetings,
and talk to people in the industry. Take advantage of any help offered
by your old company that will enhance your job search; these may include
workshops, support groups, or outplacement services.
Get Feedback on Your
Resume
Update your resume
frequently as you add new accomplishments and skills. Make sure your
work history and contact information is thorough, well written, and
accurate. Get feedback from others to be sure your resume will have the
best possible impact on potential employers.
Keep Networking
It is estimated that
40 percent of jobs are filled by networking. Talk with friends,
neighbors and people in the field about your job search.
Stay positive about
your job search and responsive to the needs of potential employers. The
more time and effort you put into your search, the more you’ll get out
of it.
Good luck as you
embark on a new chapter in your life.
Todd Yuzuriha is the author of
How
to Succeed as an Engineer: A Practical Guide to Enhance Your Career. For more
information, go to www.engineeringsuccess.com |
