3 Traits That Will Help Colleagues Looking for Work
I was on vacation when my manager called. “I’ve got good news and bad news. Which would you like first?” I opted for the good.
“The good news is that you can take a longer vacation.”
“Great!” I said. “What’s the bad news?”
“The bad news is that you can take a REAL LONG vacation.”
That’s not so bad, I thought to myself, and then asked, “How long?”.
“Forever….”
“Uh, excuse me?” I knew the company was generous, but this seemed too good to be true.
“Yes, forever. You know we have had funding challenges and the recent downturn in the economy has caused our venture capital firm to pull the plug. We are out of business and the doors will be closed by the end of the month. You can pick up your stuff when you get back.”
And that was it. I finished the rest of our vacation with the dark cloud of unemployment over my head, my two small kids clueless about what had just happened.
If you know colleagues that are unemployed during this time, do what you can to build confidence, inspire hope, and connect them with others who can help.
It was a stressful time. I eventually got another job, but not without the assistance of multiple people. Recently, I reflected on what I appreciate most about those who helped. They were:
Confidence Builders – I knew I had the skills and experience to find another position, but losing a job leaves you rattled and shaken no matter how good you are. These people helped me think positively about my experience and not get too down on myself.
Hope Inspirers – “I think I just heard of an opening, let me check and I’ll get back with you” was all I needed to hear. Just knowing that something could be in the works was enough to give me an essential boost of optimism.
Connectors – “I know someone who…” was a variation on the theme above. “I know someone who owns a company / runs a department / is starting something new. Not sure if they are hiring, but I’ll put you in touch with them.” It was so good to have those conversations at that time. Nothing came out of most of those connections, but something only had to come out of one.
So, if you have colleagues that are unemployed during this time, do what you can to fill one or all of the roles above. They will look back with gratitude… and hopefully not while on vacation.
