Media reports are doing the rounds these days speculating that many firms are planning massive layoffs this year. While a lot of them are reportedly looking to cut costs, IT giants like Capgemini and Cognizant are said to be laying off employees in India to hire workers in the United States.
While the companies are yet to comment on the layoffs and have only said that the brands will be expanded in the US, the news has created quite a frenzy among employees in India.
In light of these reports, here are a few things to keep in mind when one gets laid off.
Manage your emotions and don't panic
Sure, it is easier said than done as being laid off is something no one looks forward to. It is not only painful but a very confusing time when you do not know how to deal with the uncertain future. Instead of dwelling on why you got laid off, you could plan your future and think of the next steps to take to get things back on track.
Don't bad mouth the company
While you are bound to be annoyed about being laid off, it is not a good idea to bad mouth the company, as it might have an impact on your career later on. "Never bad-mouth a former employee or employer online, offline or via social media," author Jeffery Cohen told Monster. "You never know when you'll need a reference. That small sense of satisfaction from dissing a former company will ultimately be outweighed if it costs you a future job."
Take some time off to de-stress
Getting laid off can be one of the most stressful times in your life. Hence, it is a good decision to take some time off and de-stress instead of jumping into something new. Not only will you hold a grudge against your previous employer, you will also not be able to focus on your new job.
Plan a new budget
Now that you have decided to take some time off, you will need to plan a new budget as you are most likely to have a lesser amount of disposable income. Take note of the things you tend to spend on and plan a budget that doesn't burn a hole in your pocket.
Try and find THE job and not A job
While you take time to de-stress, also use the time to draw up a good cover letter and resume that highlights all your strengths. Instead of taking up the first thing you find, bide your time and look for something that will genuinely make you happy. "Make a bad time a good opportunity," Dennis Nason, CEO of Nason & Nason, told Monster. "Ask yourself if you were in the right position, or if you need to rethink your career."
