Getting Laid Off

Suddenly finding yourself out of a job sounds like a nightmare – but there are ways of coping

- Almari Wessels

BEING retrenched ranks pretty high on the scale of stressful life events. Most rating scales put it in the top five – along with the death of a loved one, divorce, moving house and major illness or injury. It certainly was one of the hardest things he’s ever had to deal with, André Campher says. And it was compounded by another life-changing event. Around the time André lost his job at the company he’d been working at for 12 years, his first child was born prematurely at 30 weeks weighing just 900 g.

Looking back André can see that retrenchment opened up new horizons for him, but when it happened two years ago it was difficult to be positive. He was anxious about providing for his family, especially with his son Eben being in a neonatal high-care unit for 65 days.

“You don’t see the positive side when something like that happens, but when I look back I see it pushed me in the right direction,” says the graphic designer, who now works at a company that manufactures products from citrus oil.

The 35-year-old Capetonian improved his skills set by doing advanced web and graphic design courses and with his newfound skills was able to create an app to showcase his portfolio. He firmly believes this gave him an edge over other candidates applying for the same job.

In addition to creating the company’s marketing material, he also designed its new website and manages its social media presence.

For many people losing their job is a huge fear and if it happens to you it will undoubtedly take a while to get your bearings. But experts reckon you can get your career back on track after retrenchment if you manage the situation well. Here are tips on how to do just that.

HOW TO DEAL WITH NEGATIVE EMOTIONS AFTER BEING LAID OFF