- Never ignore the rumours. No one has a safe position during layoffs, so it pays to prepare. No need to panic if you are downsized, as long as you’re prepared.
- Take time to think. If you are laid off, what direction do you want to take? Are your career goals still the same? Perhaps this is a golden opportunity to change not just your job, but your goals and your career. Unsure? Consult a Career Coach to help you discover and set new goals and map out a new plan.
- Mend fences. Take some time to ensure that your relationship with colleagues and managers are solid. These are the ideal sources for letters of recommendation and references, so ensure that you are meeting or exceeding their expectations.
Rewrite or refresh your resume. This is a great time to get your resume ready for a job search. Even if you aren’t out of a job, you’ll be ready for an unexpected opportunity.- Polish your social media presence. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date, that your achievements are all listed, and that your online information matches your updated resume.
- Get your elevator pitch ready. Networking is a part of career management even when you aren’t searching for a new job. Creating and nurturing valuable connections in your industry is part of growing your reputation and being open to new possibilities. This is a perfect time to update your elevator pitch.
- Write your story. When you search for a new position, everyone wants to know why you left your old one. Now, while the layoffs are just rumours and you’re not emotional about it, is the time to write the brief story of your possible layoff. “While I was very happy and productive at ______, the company decision to downsize affected my position, too, and now I’m eager to put my skills to work for a new organization!” This works well as a response for those who will ask questions you may not want to answer while you’re still raw, too. It’s concise, polite, and upbeat.
- Separating work from personal. Do you have personal documents, emails, or photos on your work computer? It’s time to download what belongs to you and belongs at home onto a flash drive and delete it on your company laptop. Be very careful not to copy proprietary information or delete your work product. That belongs to the company. Do you have more personal items in your desk, cube, or office than would fit neatly into a single box? Time to tidy up and remove some of the clutter. It will improve your work mindset and make the possible downsizing easier when it’s time to take it all home.
- Take another look at your handbook. Make note of any benefits or expectations mentioned in the employee handbook about layoffs. Be prepared for the possibilities, that way, you can make better decisions about what to sign and what to ask if that time comes.
Rewrite or refresh your resume. This is a great time to get your 
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