lay offs- a blessing in disguise

Taken from the economictimes.com,this article gives us an encouraging veiw about the opportunities knocking t the door,which at one point of time,we might have missed. The last job is not the last-there are many,the only thing is that we need to come out into the open and search for the talent within us. Let us see what Priya C.Nair has to say in her article:

"Whether you call it a lay-off , downsizing or cost-cutting , the entire process can be quite traumatic for the laid-off employee. Although it’s acceptable for him/her to experience different emotions, it’s more important to move beyond the emotion and utilise the available time, constructively , to kick-start the beginning of a new phase in one’s life; one that is optimistic and enriching. Because even if it takes a little while, you can still bounce back. Industry experts suggest utilising this time to figure out your priorities while also being positive and goal oriented, for you may never know how it will turn out to be a golden opportunity in disguise.

“View a pink slip as a temporary hiccup in your career. It’s a good time to get introspective by asking yourself questions that will help influence your long-term decisions like what kind of a job do I want, where do I want to work, where do my strengths lie, should I change my area of specialisation, etc., ” opines Mujtaba Merchant, Team Leader, Peopletree HR Services Pvt Ltd. A pink slip can also be viewed as an opportunity to explore other career avenues as well. “This period offers you an opportunity to study, research and explore new industries, markets, job roles, etc. Utilise this time for selfevaluation , fine tune your skills by enrolling for training/refresher courses, pursue temp jobs or freelance projects as you need to even look at earning as well, during this period,” adds Merchant.“Reflecting on what one has - like good health, supportive spouse, parents or friends, etc, compared to others helps creating the much required positive attitude,” says Marcel Parker, Chairman, Ikya Human Capital Solutions.

Always keep an updated resume handy that is accessible to friends and recruiters. Also, networking through social networks plays a big role towards fetching a job that suits your qualifications.“Also, a person must be a little flexible during such times about compensation structures as companies wouldn’t be able to offer you pay packages, as per your expectations,” suggests Anupama Parthasarathy, Founder & CEO Global Executive Talent. For a downsized employee this tumultuous time can actual ly offer an array of career-en hancing opportunities. All you need is an optimistic approach and a willingness to learn!

Prepare an updated resume and send it to organisations you believe would hire someone with your qualifications and work experience. Even if you get only one response, use that as an opportunity to explore further. Be well networked with colleagues, head hunters and executive search firms and do a regular followup , even though there are no immediate openings. Update your skills by investing in short-term training courses. Try to get a mentor who could advice and guide you, during times of distress. Analyse your financial situation and prepare for hard days, in advance."

WELL....doesnot that come as a breather?

I am one of those who have been a victim of these winds since last 20 days. I would like to share what I have as plans in the time gap that I have really got as an opportunity.

Registering for Ph.D ,I plan to go ahead with my passion for teaching and look forward to establish myself as a Professor in the field of Financial institutions and markets. This is because having an experience of nearly 2 years in the field of mutual funds,gives me an idea and a chance to explore this upcoming industry and hence,this decision.

Though I am searching for a job in the field of finance,I have my interest in teaching,forget about the package-I need to gain experience first so that I get good breaks in the coming months.

CHEERS!

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