Here’s the scenario: you were terminated today. Who do you tell? What’s your initial reaction? Why did this happen? Where do you go for help, support, guidance, and direction? How will you look for a job?
Often, depending on the length of tenure and your employment contract, employers will include some type of career transition service – also called outplacement – in your termination package. The purpose of an outplacement service is to help you through the tough and challenging period between sudden unemployment and your return to the workforce.
It is common to feel down and dejected as the “Why Me?” scenario constantly cycles through your mind. A good career transition service halts this inner negative voice and instead helps the individual to see the upside of being downsized.
Historically an employer would already have a contract with an outplacement firm, however I’m seeing a trend where more and more companies are including a payment for outplacement services in the termination package. This option offers the terminated employee the freedom to choose a career transition provider suited to their individual needs and comfort level.
There are many options available catering to different career levels and fields of expertise. Each has their own benefits, however often the individual who selects their own career management service receives greater one-on-one time and attention than is typically supplied by a company contracted provider.
An optimal outplacement service provides ongoing support, particularly important a few weeks into a job search when frustration kicks in as the individual realizes their period of unemployment could last longer than originally expected. Conduct due diligence prior to partnering with an outplacement or career management service as numerous companies will only provide support for a brief allotted time immediately after the termination date while other career transition services continue to support the individual long after termination day.
Few outplacement providers are as unique as Downsize With Dignity. We offer a customized White Glove one-on-one outplacement service, only accepting a limited number of clients at any time to maximize the individualized attention each client receives throughout the process.
When terminated, a senior business leader needs to rely on the knowledge of a highly credentialed, experienced and dedicated team of career management professionals. They need a listening ear from a senior executive career coach who possesses a comprehensive understanding of the Canadian job market and who works with the client to set realistic career targets supported by defined action plans. A Downsize With Dignity client will receive an unparalleled suite of service offerings, specifically targeting the senior executive.
Visit the Individual Outplacement tab on our website to review a description of the extensive career transition services we offer. Interested or want more information? Email me to schedule an introduction. To quote French writer and Nobel prize winner Andre Gide: “Life never presents us with anything which may not be looked upon as a fresh starting point, no less than as a termination.”
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