Laid off? Hard Questions Can Help Your Next Steps

Being laid off is scary —I speak from experience. If you’re finding yourself on the receiving end of a layoff notice, you’re obliged to do some self-examination. If you can do this honestly, it will help you get back on track, perhaps on a different one.

Here are two hard truths about layoffs:

1. Layoffs Impact the Bottom 20%. Companies take advantage of economic volatility to trim underperforming staff.
2. Layoffs Can Impact High Performers. Yes, even solid performers can find a dreaded layoff notice, especially if their company is restructuring or downsizing drastically.

If you fall under the first bracket, think back to recent performance reviews or ask a few trusted friends, “what skills should I work on?” Feedback from others almost always reveals opportunities for improvement.

If you fall under the latter, your track record of hard work will be critical when you’re speaking with new hiring managers.

But, what if instead of looking for another job, you thought about starting your own consulting business?