Surviving (and Thriving from) a Layoff




Couple Money Podcast: Build Your Marriage and Wealth Together  show

Summary: One of the biggest fears people have is <a href="http://couplemoney.com/economy/do-you-have-job-loss-emergency-plan/">losing their job</a>. It impacts families more than just with money. Depending on your situation, your job can also be a source of identity and security. Having that gone can create a huge source of stress.<br> The good news is that it is possible to bounce back. It’s not going to be fixed with the snap of a finger, but you can find a better solution. It can be tough when you’re in middle of one, just trying to stay afloat. That’s why it’s best to prepare now when you don’t have to the additional pressure.<br> This episode  I’m going to share how you two can prepare yourselves should that situation come up including tips on updating your resume, LinkedIn profile, and network.  I’m so happy to have Eric from Narrow Bridge Finance on the show today and share his story. A few years ago, he was faced with a layoff and instead of panicking, he came up with a <a href="http://www.narrowbridge.net/how-i-turned-a-layoff-into-a-raise/">game-plan that not only helped get him his next job, but a $6,000 raise</a>.<br><br> [smart_track_player url=”http://media.blubrry.com/couplemoney/traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CM_003_How_to_Survive_and_Thrive_From_a_Layoff.mp3″ ]<br> <br> * Subscribe on iTunes: Simply <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/couple-money-podcast-build/id924656111">click on this link</a> and you’ll be taken to Couple Money’s page where you can subscribe.<br> * Subscribe on Stitcher: Please <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=54457&amp;refid=stpr">click here</a> so you can catch all episodes.<br> <br> Polish and Target Your Resume<a href="http://couplemoneypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Surviving-and-Thriving-from-a-Layoff.png"></a><br> It may seem frustrating to get a resume ready when it seems like recruiters and managers breeze by them, but having a resume can be the calling card to get you the job you want. According to Matt Tarpey, an adviser with CareerBuilder, it’s still essential. You just have to be smart about how you craft yours.<br> <br> * Go over your resume with a fine tooth comb to remove typos and grammatical errors. Sounds obvious, but it still happens far too often. Don’t disqualify yourself over an easy fix.<br> * Think like the recruiter. When you’re designing the layout of your resume, stick to the essentials and the facts. You have about five seconds to make an impression, don’t clutter your resume with fluff.<br> * Draw attention to your outstanding skills and be specific with your achievements.<br> * Have an on-line copy of your resume. Should someone in your network think of you when a job comes it up, having a resume they can quickly print out and give to the decision make is invaluable.<br> <br> Maximizing LinkedIn<br> Here are six steps you can do optimize your profile’s reach and value.<br> <br> * Tailor your profile. Don’t take the easy route and simply list your jobs. Make sure your profile fits your career aspirations. If you want to move up or laterally, review and update your profile to reflect that. Make it easy for people to see you in your next position.<br> * Put your best face forward. Don’t just use photos for your profile, have them with your updates. Viewers are more likely to click on them than with a text only update.<br> * Highlight your expertise. As you create or update your profile make sure you showcase your specific talents, using keywords that recruiters are likely to search for.<br> * Show, just don’t tell. It’s not enough to tell people what you know. Establish yourself by writing relevant articles about your industry.<br> * Take advantage of groups. Join groups that you can meaningfully participate and learn from.<br> * Don’t just take, give. Make yourself available to help others with their career. Do you know a job opening at your company?