Leadership and Executive Development for women of all races, cultures and backgrounds
Issue link: https://diversitywoman.epubxp.com/i/91258
Point of View Corporate Ladder Fallen off the Corporate Ladder? Here's How to Climb Back On! I f you've lost a job, it's normal to feel hurt, vulnerable, or angry. But there are many things you can do to take control of the situation and boost your spirits. You can get through this tough time by taking care of yourself, reaching out to others, and rethink- ing your career goals to rediscover what truly makes you happy. Our jobs are much more than just the minute, recognize that your thoughts are Starting this powerful. way we make a living. Tey influence how we see ourselves, as well as the way others see us. Our career gives us structure, purpose, and meaning. Tat is why job loss and unemployment are among the most stressful events in our lives. But it's important to get back on the corporate ladder and start the climb again. You may have to start on a middle rung—or in this economy, perhaps even toward the bottom—but you can certainly get back on. First, create and maintain a positive mind- set. When you've lost your job, it's easy to start criticizing or blaming yourself. However, try to avoid putting yourself down. You'll need your self-confidence intact as you start looking for a new job. Instead of dwelling on your job loss— how unfair it is; how poorly it was handled; things you could have done to prevent it; how much better life would be if it had not hap- pened—try to accept the situation. Te sooner you do, the sooner you can get on with the next phase of your life. You are the master of your thoughts. Starting this minute, recognize that your thoughts are powerful. Tey can make or break you, elevate or demote you. Challenge every negative thought that goes through your head. Counteract them with positive affirmations. Engage in activities that make you laugh. Harness the power of optimism to springboard you to your desired goal. Second, create a job search plan. Break big goals into small, manageable steps to avoid getting overwhelmed. Instead of trying to do everything at once, set priorities. If you're not ZZZ GLYHUVLW\ZRPDQ FRP Sandra Bailey having luck in your job search, take some time to rethink your goals. Start by making a list of all the things you like about yourself including skills, person- ality traits, and accomplishments. Write down projects you are proud of, situations where you excelled, and things you are good at. Revisit this list often to remind yourself of your strengths. Volunteer. Unemployment and job loss can wear on your self-esteem and make you feel useless. Volunteering helps you maintain a sense of value and purpose. And helping oth- ers is an instant mood booster. Volunteering can also provide career experience, social sup- port, and networking opportunities. Focus on the things you can control. You can't control how quickly a prospective em- ployer calls you back or whether they decide to hire you. Rather than wasting your precious energy on things that are out of your hands, turn your attention to things you can control during your unemployment, such as writing a great cover letter and résumé tailored to a company you want to work for and setting up meetings with your networking contacts. Tink about how much better you'll feel at the end of the day knowing that you took positive action. Turn to people you trust for support. Share what you are going through with the people you love and trust. Ask for the support you need. Don't try to shoulder the stress of job loss and unemployment alone. Your natural reaction may be to withdraw out of embarrass- ment and shame or to resist asking for help out of pride. But avoid the tendency to isolate! It will only make you feel worse. )DOO ',9(56,7< :20$1 >