One of the best things about being part of a planned corporate downsizing is the opportunity to reconsider your long-term goals. Admittedly, downsizing can catch workers off guard, but long-term, they report that their happiness and satisfaction actually increased after corporate restructuring. One of the best things that you can do in the event of a layoff or restructuring is to consider where you would like to work and what you would most like to do. There are people who have turned side businesses into their main focus: recent studies show that American retailers are enjoying a period of unprecedented success, and that we are more likely to quit our day jobs to pursue our artistic goals than ever before.
If you are considering downsizing your apartment, start with three piles: keep, donate, and sell. You may have clothing that you haven’t worn for months or even years, and donations of office clothing can help people who have been out of the workforce for many years. If you make a sizeable clothing donation to your local clothing donation charity, make sure that you ask for a receipt: many donations are tax-deductible. There is a burgeoning movement in America that is called the Tiny House movement: people voluntarily relocate to homes that have less than 500 square feet of living space. You may not want to go that small, but how much money would you save every year if you lived somewhere smaller?
There are thousands of American workers who are considering making a major move right now: an executive placement agency will be more than happy to work with you on your long-term goals. If you are willing to take a year overseas and to work in an international environment, let the executive placement agency know your goals. There are always openings for qualified workers who are willing to take the leap and try a new city or even a new country. Part of what makes our economy great is the fact that we are able to easily relocate to another state for work: if you’re thinking about putting your stuff into storage and hitting the road, look for an executive outplacement service company that can help you get adjusted to your new location.
In general, any executive placement agency is looking for candidates who are flexible and who are at the top of their field: you may feel that your skills are in good shape, but it’s always a good idea to check for classes in your local area or online. Continuing education could give you the winning edge, and class schedules shouldn’t ask too much of your time. If your company is in the process of downsizing, you should know that your skills are likely in high demand at another company: expertise will always find you another position. If you want to go back to school full-time, talk to your executive placement agency about fitting into a consultative role. You may be able to help your new company with talent acquisition, employee training, or sales goals.
You know yourself best, and it’s important to remain optimistic if you find that you’re looking for a new job. Make sure that you have a few resume outfits and an updated resume, and then ask yourself: am I happy? Would moving to a new city make me happier? At my age, what are my goals? You’ve achieved so many life goals at work that it’s important to make sure that your personal goals are being met: in this day and age, you can work from home or from a mountaintop as long as it has internet. You need to stop and ask yourself if you’re happy with your life as it is or if you’d like to take steps to get closer to where you want to be: there is always a job open for a professional with a razor-sharp skill set.