Get a job: What to do in the hours and days after a layoff

In the 48 hours that follow a layoff, it's "critically important" to take care of yourself.

That's according to Calgary career coach, Richard Bucher.

With the city bracing for more jobs cuts in the energy sector this week, the Calgary Eyeopener asked Bucher for advice on what to do in the hours and days after getting a layoff notice.

Go home

When a life-changing event like a layoff happens, Bucher says you should go home and allow yourself time to adjust to what's happened.

"Get yourself in a comfortable place where you don't have to be around people you don't have to be concerned about an emotional outbreak," he said.

And while you may have an urge to blow off some steam, Bucher advises against it.

"This is a very emotional time," he said. "Alcohol mixed with this is probably not the best thing. The one thing I know about this kind of a day -— we're going to make the worst decisions in our life."

Leave it all behind

"If you have personal assets in your office, ask your company if they would send it home by courier," said Bucher.

He says most often, your employer will provide direction regarding packing up personal effects, company assets and leaving the office. If they provide the support of an outside company, such as a transition firm, take full advantage of it.

Call your spouse or partner

Then as a couple, share the news with your immediate family. Beyond that, you can both discuss if and how to break the news to parents and extended family.

"Do not email everyone you know telling them you've been laid off. Your current state of employment is not your most important characteristic," said Bucher.

He says while you will be reaching out to people in your network in the weeks that follow, you will be doing it strategically.

Review your termination letter

Make sure you understand it and if you're unsure or unclear, seek professional advice or the HR contact you were assigned.

Pay particular attention to the date your release document must be signed and returned and don't miss that date. If you need more time, contact HR and ask for it.

Review your finances

If you need financial advice, then seek out a professional to determine how you're doing financially and when you need to be working again, says Bucher.

If you received severance, ensure you know exactly when it ends and then consider if anything needs to change with your spending habits.

Before your severance runs out, visit the EI website to educate yourself on the rules regarding benefits.