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Recession Depression

Dealing With Layoffs and Downsizing

By Carma Haley Shoemaker

How you look at your situation can often determine the outcome. According to Nash, perhaps something in between may be the answer. "Dads need to remember that they have all the ability and talent they had before the layoff," says Nash. "While the job market may be poor, those who have the right attitude, the skills and the motivation to go after what they want will be employed much sooner. This is not a failure; it is a temporary setback. Temporary is the key word. It is the lull before the next great job. An interim job may be required to make ends meet but always keep looking for the one you want."

Some men will blame anyone and/or anything they can for their unemployment, staying in an angry, aggressive and dangerous state, affecting their families and their finances now and for the future. "If finances are a problem, there are publicly funded credit counselors available," says Nash. "If you talk with them many creditors are willing to work with you. Call them. Don't just not pay. This will force your creditors to take action against you, putting negative information on your credit report. Then, after you do get a new job, you'll be even further behind."

Regardless of how you feel now, things are never as bad as they seem. But it is up to you to take charge and make the changes needed. "Some people will always be employed or find jobs quickly," says Nash. "They are resilient. I often repeat: Successful people do the things unsuccessful people don't want to do. Finding a new job is harder than any other work you've ever done because it isn't a skill you use often. It takes time and energy. Don't give up. Answer ads, get your resume on the Internet, network, follow up and keep going. Interviews will come. Don't sit at home waiting for the phone to ring or start cleaning out the garage. A job search is difficult do it anyway."