Resources for Professionals in Transition

Although layoffs are often unexpected, you can put things in place to prepare for the possibility. 

1. Listen to warning signals.
2. Create and add to an emergency fund. Leverage your skills to create an additional income stream.
3. Consider a plan to reduce or pay off debt. 
4. Review your health insurance coverage, schedule needed medical appointments, and fill prescriptions. 
5. Identify ways that you would be able to meet financial needs, including housing and food assistance. Some retirement accounts permit withdrawals to cover emergency needs. 
6. Save important employment documents, such as W2, paystubs, and performance reviews, in order to facilitate filing for unemployment or to consider potential litigation. 
7. Clean up personal information and files on your computer, and remove any saved logins and passwords. 

If you are laid off, buy yourself any time and space that is possible.

1. Review your severance package thoroughly. Meet with HR, and ask about the terms of the severance, including expectations about communication, future references, compensation for unused vacation and sick time, insurance coverage, educational and tuition benefits, and retirement accounts. Avoid signing the agreement in the moment, and agree on a specific date and time to finalize details. 
2. If possible, negotiate access to career coaching resources. 
3. Confer with trusted external sources, including a legal advisor depending on your situation. Talk with someone who can help you think clearly in a confidential space.
4. Discuss and agree on the content and manner of communication about your termination to your staff, colleagues, and public. Exercise caution when communicating with others, recognizing the importance of your team's morale and that you may not want to burn bridges. 
5. Exit gracefully. If your agreement includes remaining for a period of time until a negotiated date of departure, perform within the parameters of your job description and avoid taking on new duties. It is entirely acceptable to politely decline requests to meet with your successor. Given how people are connected in the field, it may be wise to avoid making negative statements about your employer or the circumstances of your departure. 

Being asked to leave your job is sad, disappointing, frustrating, and can feel deeply personal. Attending to your wellbeing is critical. 

1. Make time for grief. Give yourself time for reflection and focus.
2. Include your friends and family. Although it may be tempting to isolate yourself, letting your community support you can be important for you and for them. Recognize that your family might also need support to manage their stress. 
3. Invest in your physical wellness, paying attention to sleep, eating, activity, and coping mechanisms. Mindfulness resources include 
4. Manage your stress and mental health, connecting with a counselor or therapist. Check below on this page for organizations that offer free or low-cost mental health services.  

Take time to evaluate your strengths, interests, and professional goals.

1. Look before you leap. If circumstances allow, don't let exigency drive your search, and avoid considering positions that aren't right for you right now. 
2. Reflect on your accomplishments, values, and the vision you have for your career. This may be the time to consider a lateral move, a step back professionally to regroup, an entrepreneurial path, or a role outside student affairs. 
3. Learn from others' experiences, including the lessons shared in this blog post, "Executive Transitions: Lessons Learned."
4. Use your network. Ask colleagues for input on your strengths and areas of growth, assistance with your resume and cover letter, and letters of reference. 
5. Share that you are open to opportunities. Update your LinkedIn profile, contact search firms, ask for leads on potential positions, and attend networking opportunities.