AI , too , have certainly experienced job loss . What I ’ ve learned is this can be a difficult journey , especially when we attempt to find something comparable . What I also learned is now is the time to think differently and not compare what you had to what you ’ re aiming to get for your future . You must also not think of what ’ s next as “ less .” Instead , start by creating a list of your “ must haves ” for a position , not a list full of things just like your previous job . Then , make a list of “ loved to have .” Include the things you love to do every day-those things you look forward to expanding and developing . Now that you clearly know what you must have and what you ’ d love to have , keep your eyes and ears open . Be open to new opportunities you may have never considered before , especially those that have some items on your “ must have ” list .
Speaking of being open , this leads us to the opportunity to do what you ’ ve listed that you love through , yes , contracting . View contracting as a career option that may benefit you in several ways . This type of work provides a good way to strengthen the skills on your list as well as build an even better resume . To that end , being a contractor is also a method for using your skills in the meantime while you look for an employer who provides your desired
benefits . This is also a great way to network and build strong professional relationships . Professional Meet-ups are a good way to connect with likeminded people and hear their stories as well as get a view of your competition .
As a contractor , you ’ ll learn more about business dynamics , saving , managing and choosing the right benefits . Know that being a contractor doesn ’ t mean you have to completely lose your health benefits . Research policies designed for small businesses that will allow you to implement various types of benefits . Also review plan options that may have been presented to you as part of your severance package . Don ’ t forget to review health benefits given by the state and nonprofit organizations .
Bottom line , whether your spend most of your time solely looking for the career opportunity you want or becoming a contractor , you will gain a lot from each experience including resilience , deep learning and relationship building . This will be a journey that will teach you a lot and certainly build your list of skills .
I wish you the best ! Here ’ s to catapulting your career !
Hope LeNoir , Forward Thinking Professional Development Strategist and Coach , is the Founder of Rise and Fly .
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