The Pink Slip
If you’ve ever been fired, downsized, rightsized, let go, released, (whatever word you wish to affix to this event), perhaps you still remember the day it happened. Maybe you remember that day like it was yesterday, even though months, days, or years have passed.
Listed below are three specific examples my clients have shared recently regarding news of their employment termination:
1. …on vacation and read Urgent Message in the subject line of an e-mail. The message stated that upon my return from vacation, a severance package would be provided; changing market conditions necessitated such action.
2. …received a registered letter via U.S. mail announcing that on such-and-such a date, my position would be eliminated due to territory realignment.
3. …voice message from my boss relaying that some changes were in the works and that my services were no longer needed.
No matter how you discover that you are now a free agent, do yourself a favor and come up with the line that best explains to prospective employers, recruiters, professional networks, and Uncle Dan why you’re in transition. Once you have figured out what you want to say, practice, practice, practice your lines until you get comfortable with your words. A few simple tips to get you started:
- keep your explanation brief; avoid negative-sounding words.
- after you say the thing, stop talking, as the more you talk, the more questions you’ll be asked about the thing.
- end your explanation on a positive note; do not lie.
- say your lines with clarity, credibility, and conviction.
- do not reveal too much information (TMI); it’s an interview, not a therapy session.
If you simply cannot figure out what to say, or how to say it, find someone you trust to help you. Even if you have to pay someone to help you, it’s well worth it. After you have practiced your lines several times, hopefully, you will feel more comfortable about dealing with the pink slip subject matter.
By Billie Sucher and courtesy of CareerHub.com. The Career Hub blog connects job seekers with experts in career counseling, resume writing, personal branding and recruiting.
