What do you do if you need to preserve your professional network and connections during a layoff?
Navigating layoffs is a challenge that many professionals face at some point in their careers. It's a time filled with uncertainty, but it's also an opportunity to reassess and reinvigorate your professional network. When you're facing a layoff, preserving your professional connections becomes crucial. These relationships can provide support, offer insights, and potentially lead to new opportunities. In the context of change management, it's about strategically maintaining and leveraging your network to navigate through this period of transition.
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Dr. Amit VikramChange Management, and Transformations @ HCLTech | Ph.D., Prosci®, SAFe®, 6-Sigma Green Belt, Published Author
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Thierry STREEL 🧩🔶 Manager de Transition /19 ans 🔸 Entreprises en difficultés : 100-500 salariés 🔸+15 entreprises sauvées : 3.000…
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Jeanan Yasiri MoeBoard Director, NACD.DC - Communications and Change Strategist - Director Of Strategic Communications and Public…
During a layoff, it's essential to keep a positive demeanor when interacting with your network. This isn't just about keeping up appearances; it's about fostering genuine relationships that can endure despite your current employment status. Remember, the way you handle adversity can leave a lasting impression. So, while it's natural to feel down, strive to share constructive experiences and stay upbeat in your communications. This positivity can make you a person others want to support and help.
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-Informer de la situation avec clarté & partager nos objectifs. La transparence favorise la confiance. -Le réseautage est à double sens. Même pendant un licenciement, aider nos contacts. -Rester actif sur LinkedIn. Participer à des discussions, des posts qui reflètent l'expertise. -Assister à des Events : conférences, séminaires, ... -Partager le café OnLine, le Business-Lunch, pour garder les relations vivantes. -Rejoindre des associations professionnelles = opportunités de réseautage. -Chercher du mentoring, des groupes de soutien entre pairs pour rebondir. -Renforcer les compétences. -Collaborer sur des projets qui servent de tremplin. -Reconnaissance & gratitude : un simple merci peut aller loin dans le maintien de relations solides.
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No matter the situation, and as a wise woman said, "When they go low, we go high." Transitions can be difficult at the moment, but they can also be very refreshing. Show up. Stay positive. Support others and let them know they can count on you as a resource today and moving forward. Thank the organization for the opportunity you had to serve. You never know if or when you will be working with them again.
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Staying positive during layoffs can be hard, in particular when you loved the team/company and grief and sorrow. One step to stay positive is to write down everything what you learned in that company, what are the assets that you can put in your backpack. Also think about what person did you become and write down the strength you gained. With this in mind share your situation with in your closed network and you may ask for help or guidance. As the old saying goes, a sorrow shared is a sorrow halved.
Open communication is key when preserving your professional network during a layoff. Let your connections know about your situation in a straightforward yet thoughtful manner. You don't need to share every detail, but being transparent about your transition can open doors to new opportunities. This approach demonstrates your professionalism and can encourage others to share advice or job leads that could be beneficial in your job search.
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Inform your professional network of your transition. Do so positively, without slighting the organization you are leaving whatsoever. Express your being grateful for previous opportunities and your interest in putting your skills and expertise to work for others. Focus on the future and engage with those who offer well wishes or advice to share. Remember, YOU build the narrative. This is YOUR story to tell if you are strategic and timely in doing so.
Even in the midst of a layoff, think about how you can offer value to your network. This could be sharing industry insights, providing introductions, or helping others with their projects. By being helpful, you not only keep the relationship active but also reinforce your reputation as a valuable professional. When you give without immediately expecting something in return, you're more likely to receive support when you need it most.
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Everyone appreciates a positive, forward thinking colleague or resource, especially in uncertain times. Whether it is inside your organization or outside, make sure your network knows you remain on point and ready to help, problem solve or move projects forward. Offer your help, especially if others aren't sure about the future. This is a time to demonstrate both your resourcefulness as well as your genuine leadership managing through adversity.
A layoff might be the impetus you need to reconnect with old colleagues or acquaintances. Reach out with a personal message that reflects genuine interest in their well-being and updates them on your situation. Avoid making the conversation solely about your need for a job. Instead, focus on rekindling the relationship. This tactful approach can naturally lead to discussions about new opportunities without making your contacts feel used.
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During a layoff, maintain your professional network by: (1) Communicating Transparently: Share your situation honestly while expressing gratitude for past collaborations. (2) Offering Support: Help others with introductions or advice, fostering reciprocal goodwill. (3) Staying Engaged: Participate in industry forums and online discussions to remain visible and relevant. Remember --- Regularly engage with at least five contacts per week to strengthen relationships.
Technology offers powerful tools for maintaining your professional network. Use social media platforms and professional networking sites to stay in touch and share updates about your career journey. Engage with your connections' content by commenting and sharing posts that resonate with you. This digital engagement can keep you on the radar of your network and even expand your reach to potential new connections.
Finally, always think ahead when it comes to your professional network. Consider how you can nurture these relationships continuously, not just during a layoff. Set aside time each week to check in with contacts, offer support, and share interesting articles or events. By planning regular interactions, you ensure that your network remains robust and ready to support you whenever you need it.
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Actually, we are not meant to wait for a crisis to engage with our network. It may be tasking, but we can set aside time to check in with our contacts. It could be a brief message, a virtual chat, or sharing an interesting 'gist'. Be genuinely interested in others' well-being. Ask how they're doing, professionally and personally. Offer support when needed. A strong network is built on reciprocity. Attending conferences, webinars, and networking events helps to meet new people too. Participate in online forums or LinkedIn groups. Visibility matters. Like one of my mentors will say 'O.Q.P.'- Only Quality People', a robust network is not just about quantity; it's about quality and meaningful connections.
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During layoffs professional network should be well preserved but not at the account of self respect. If something constructive had been done for the organisation will always be remembered sooner or later and will surely come into the notice of superiors and peers.
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During a layoff in the insurance industry, preserving your professional network is crucial. First, maintain open communication with colleagues and supervisors, expressing gratitude and offering assistance where possible. Utilize LinkedIn and other networking platforms to stay connected and update your profile to reflect your expertise and availability. Attend industry events and join relevant groups to expand your network further. By nurturing relationships and showcasing your skills, you can leverage your network for potential job opportunities and industry insights, ensuring a smoother transition post-layoff.
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