Posted on September 8th, 2023

There's a peculiar sensation that courses through your veins when you're handed that envelope or receive that unexpected email. 

Being laid off, frankly, is daunting. It evokes an uncertain future and many sleepless nights. 

But what if I told you that this seemingly dire situation could be one of the best things to happen to you? 

As the eldest of six brothers, I've come to appreciate life's unpredictable turns. 

In our boisterous household, plans changed, squabbles arose, and yet, each challenge presented an opportunity to learn, grow, and lead. 

This perspective, nurtured over years of guiding younger siblings, is precisely what I wish to share with you regarding layoffs. 

Embrace the unexpected. It’s not the end; it could very well be the beginning of something magnificent.

1. Embracing the Unexpected Opportunity:

Growing up, I learned early on that every setback was a setup for a comeback. Just like when one of my brothers lost a school election or another missed a spot in the varsity team, layoffs too can be viewed as a disguised opportunity.

The surprising benefits of being laid off:

While it may seem counterintuitive at first, getting laid off work can offer a fresh start. It gives you the rare chance to step back and genuinely reflect on what you want from your career. Perhaps the job you had wasn’t in line with your ultimate dreams or aspirations. Maybe, like a detour on a family road trip, it's a chance to discover something new and exciting about yourself.

From oldest sibling to mentor:

In guiding my younger brothers through life's many ups and downs, I've been their coach, counselor, and cheerleader. This role has endowed me with a resilience that I've carried into my professional life. Layoffs, much like those challenges we faced as a tight-knit family, are a chance to tap into that innate resilience, to draw strength from past experiences, and to steer your life in a direction you truly desire.

The "got laid off" narrative:

We often fear judgment. When you say you "got laid off," there’s this unwarranted shame that sometimes accompanies it. But what if you changed that narrative? Instead of viewing it as a loss, see it as an opportunity to start afresh, just as you would encourage a sibling to see the silver lining after a setback. This perspective shift can make all the difference in how you approach your subsequent career moves.

2. Financial Awareness and Planning

With every unexpected twist in life, whether it's a broken toy or a sudden layoff, comes the inherent need for a strategy. Just as I learned the importance of budgeting my allowances and savings to accommodate the needs of my younger siblings, financial awareness becomes crucial after a layoff.

Layoff benefits and your financial safety net:

The silver lining in the dark cloud of being laid off from work often lies in the layoff benefits that many companies offer. Before you panic, delve deep into your severance package, if there's one, and understand every facet of it. It's akin to finding a hidden stash of candy when you least expect it – you’d be surprised at what’s available to help tide you over during this transitional period.

Learning financial discipline from early sibling responsibilities:

The financial lessons I learned as the eldest of six brothers were invaluable. I understood early on the importance of saving, prioritizing needs over wants, and planning for the unexpected. These lessons are pivotal when faced with a layoff. Tightening the belt, budgeting, and cutting unnecessary expenses may be in order, but remember, it's temporary. And just as I’d save up to buy gifts for my siblings on special occasions, think of this period as saving up for your brighter, imminent future.

Post-layoff financial strategies:

Once you’ve taken stock of your immediate financial situation post-layoff, it’s time to strategize. Reach out to financial advisers, consider freelance or part-time work, or even tap into a skill you've put on the back burner. I've seen many individuals turn hobbies into income sources. Think back to those childhood days where entrepreneurial spirit shone – maybe it was selling lemonade or mowing lawns. Now's the time to harness that creativity and ingenuity.

3. Networking and Building Connections:

The strength of a bond, be it between brothers or professional acquaintances, is built over time and through shared experiences. I always found that my bond with my siblings wasn't just because we shared the same blood, but because we shared stories, triumphs, and defeats. Similarly, your professional journey is dotted with connections that can prove invaluable during times like these.

The power of community after being laid off:

Now is not the time to retreat into a shell. Open up about your layoff experience. By sharing, you'll find others who’ve walked your path and are willing to guide you, offer opportunities, or just lend a listening ear. Remember those childhood days when sharing a problem with a sibling or friend made it seem halved? The same principle applies here. The more you connect, the closer you get to your next big break.

Lessons from sibling rivalries and bonds:

My brothers and I had our fair share of disagreements. But these rivalries always ended in stronger connections. They taught me the importance of collaboration, understanding, and forgiveness. Similarly, in the professional world, past disagreements or rivalries shouldn’t be barriers. Reconnect, rebuild, and remember that every connection is a potential door to a new opportunity.

Strategies for effective networking post-layoff:

Use this period to attend seminars, workshops, or webinars. Engage actively on professional networks like LinkedIn. And don't hesitate to reach out directly to people in your desired field. Remember how, as kids, making friends was as easy as sharing a toy or a snack? Channel that same straightforwardness and sincerity in your networking efforts.

4. Upskilling and Personal Development:

As the eldest among my brothers, I often felt a sense of responsibility to set the bar high, continuously pushing boundaries and broadening horizons. These personal growth milestones aren't just limited to familial roles; they're incredibly vital post-layoff. This period might just be the universe's way of telling you it’s time for a little self-investment.

Turning free time into learning time:

A layoff might mean you suddenly find yourself with a lot of free time. Instead of letting worry or boredom take over, consider it as a golden opportunity to learn. Dive into courses, workshops, or books related to your field, or maybe even explore entirely new domains. Remember those summer breaks when my brothers and I would dive into new hobbies and activities? Approach this period with the same enthusiasm and hunger to learn.

Evolving as the elder brother and the parallel in career growth:

My journey as the eldest sibling was marked by continuous learning – from understanding the needs of my younger brothers to picking up skills that would benefit the family. Likewise, personal and professional growth is about evolving, adapting, and staying ahead of the curve. Layoffs can be a wake-up call to identify areas you need to strengthen or entirely new paths worth exploring.

Recommended courses and learning paths:

While the world is brimming with knowledge sources, you might want to start by identifying key areas in your field that are in demand. Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer a plethora of courses. Or perhaps you can join a local community college or workshop. Just like guiding my brothers towards their passions, allow yourself to be guided by industry trends and personal interests.

5. Psychological Well-being and Acceptance:

One thing I've learned from being both an elder brother and a career coach is the importance of mental resilience. Just as I've comforted and encouraged my siblings through their low phases, it's crucial to provide the same solace to oneself during challenging times.

Dealing with the emotional aftermath of a layoff:

It's natural to feel a myriad of emotions post-layoff – anger, sadness, anxiety, or even relief. While it's essential to acknowledge these feelings, it's equally important not to get stuck in them. Engaging in activities that uplift your spirits, whether it's meditation, exercise, or simply indulging in a hobby, can be therapeutic. Remember the times when a small pep talk or distraction would lift the spirits of a disheartened sibling? Treat yourself with the same kindness.

Being the emotional anchor for younger siblings:

Growing up, my younger brothers often looked up to me for emotional guidance. These experiences taught me the art of resilience. You have it within you to bounce back from a layoff, drawing strength from all past challenges and victories. Always remember, every phase is temporary, and with the right mindset, you can steer the ship towards brighter shores.

Ways to maintain a positive mindset:

Surround yourself with positive influences – be it friends, family, or motivational literature. Engage in activities that bring joy and give you a sense of purpose. Set small, achievable goals, and celebrate your successes, no matter how trivial. It's akin to those baby steps my brothers took under my watchful eye; every step counts, and every achievement deserves celebration.

The Transformative Power of Career Coaching

In the journey of life, just as I often played the role of a mentor and guide to my five younger brothers, a career coach can be that beacon of light in your professional pathway, especially after a layoff.

In my role as a career coach, I've seen firsthand the transformative journeys of many who've faced layoffs. Much like guiding a sibling, a coach offers that external perspective, helping you see opportunities where you might only see obstacles. With insights, strategies, and a wealth of experience, a coach can turn the 'what to do when laid off' dilemma into a strategic action plan.

Drawing parallels with sibling guidance:

Just as I steered my brothers through choices – be it academic, personal, or playful – a career coach guides you through the maze of professional decisions post-layoff. From resume crafting, to identifying potential growth industries, to even personal branding – it's like having an elder brother by your side, ensuring you're set for success.

Why Kilcarr Consulting’s Career Coaching is for you:

At Kilcarr Consulting, we don't just offer advice; we tailor solutions to fit your unique needs and aspirations. Drawing from a wealth of experience and a personal touch akin to familial guidance, our coaching sessions aim to equip, empower, and elevate your career trajectory. If you ever find yourself pondering, "I got laid off, now what?", remember that with the right guidance, the 'what' can be anything you dream of .

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of life, layoffs, much like many unexpected turns, can seem like unsightly snags. But as the eldest of six brothers, I've come to understand that these aren't flaws; they are, in fact, unique patterns that add depth and character to our stories. Each of these experiences, no matter how daunting at first, presents a chance to grow, evolve, and move closer to our true selves. If you're reading this post-layoff or fearing one in the future, remember to embrace the unexpected, lean into the learning, and prioritize your well-being. 

Your path might have altered, but the destination remains unchanged - and often, it becomes clearer and even more rewarding. The journey of guiding my brothers taught me resilience, patience, and unwavering optimism. Allow these lessons to guide you too. And if ever you feel lost or need direction, remember there's guidance available. 

Reach out, seek counsel, and pave your path forward.