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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