Coping with job loss

Now is not the time to attack job seekers

Lately I’ve had so many emails from people looking for work. Especially public servants. The unemployment rate is at a record high with another 26,000 expected to be unemployed before the peak is reached.

March quarter data from Stats NZ showed an increase in the unemployment rate, from 4 percent in December to 4.3 percent. Stats NZ have said 134,000 people were now unemployed. That does NOT include most of the public service cuts announced so far this year - about 5,000 so far.

I’ve had emails from people saying they’ve applied for 100+ jobs in the last four months. I’ve had emails from people saying that they have applied for entry level jobs and been told they’re too qualified while people who held senior roles are now working in entry roles and people with degrees are being told they’re under-qualified.

It is an astounding time to be attacking unemployed New Zealanders when they’re desperately trying to find work and the jobs just aren’t there.

Due to my fears around a mental health crisis in this country due to mass redundancies and a fucked job market I’ve already shared a newsletter on how to manage your mental health when you lose your job. In light of this government’s latest bullshit I thought it was important to share more support. I know and you know job seekers are doing it really tough. They do not need a guy who owns so many properties he can't even remember their worth to tell them to go find jobs.

Huge thanks to Crispin Garden-Webster for his advice below. Crispin has worked in HR for 30 years so I reckon he knows his stuff. I hope his guide will help.

Coping with Job Loss - A survivors’ Guide

Coping with employment loss can be like a relationship loss. You might feel anger or disappointment, you might question the rationale or fairness of what has happened. You might question your own actions, have self-doubt, or withdraw from others. In some ways it can be a bit like the grief cycle… denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance.

So, how do we cope with this?

Job loss can leave us feeling lost and uncertain about our future. The sudden loss of employment can be a shock, impacting us financially, as well as impacting our identity and self-worth. We all deal with it differently and it is possible to navigate this challenge and emerge stronger from the experience.

Feelings

Losing a job can trigger a cascade of emotions—shock, anger, sadness, and anxiety are all normal responses to an abnormal event. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings rather than suppress them. Give yourself permission to grieve. You’re allowed to grieve and cry.

Job loss is a life change, not unlike the loss of a loved one. It's important to give yourself permission to feel and process how you feel. This is normal and part of moving forward.

Reach out

Reach out to former colleagues, industry contacts, and friends. Networking can open doors to opportunities that aren't advertised publicly. Attend industry events, join professional groups online, and don't hesitate to ask for informational interviews to learn more about potential career paths.

Learning

The job market is constantly evolving, and so should your skillset. Consider taking online courses or earning certifications in areas that complement your existing expertise. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wealth of resources that can enhance your employability.

Look after yourself

Maintaining mental and emotional health and resilience during a job search is crucial. Some useful strategies to build resilience:

Establish a Routine: Creating a daily schedule can provide a sense of normalcy and purpose. Set aside time for job searching, but also make sure to include activities that you enjoy and that help you relax.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a powerful tool for managing stress and boosting mood. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a workout at the gym, find an exercise routine that works for you.

Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a professional counsellor. Sharing your experiences and feelings can alleviate some of the emotional burdens of job loss.

Stay Positive and Persistent: Rejection is an inevitable part of the job search process. It's important to stay positive and not take it personally. Each application and interview is a learning experience that brings you closer to your next opportunity. Train yourself, get a critical friend to give you mock interviews.

Look ahead

Put the status quo in a place that doesn’t block your view. Job loss, while challenging, can also be an opportunity to grow and reinvent yourself. Many people find that this period allows them to reassess their career goals and explore new directions.

Sometimes, a job loss can be the catalyst for pursuing a dream or passion that you’ve only ever thought about.

By being proactive, seeking support, and maintaining a resilient mindset, you can navigate job loss and find new pathways. This is not the end of your professional journey—it is potentiality the beginning of a new chapter.

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Back to me - I am a high school drop out but my advice for what it’s worth is: Know you’re not alone.

Lots of people are in the same boat and it might help to share how you’re feeling so the people around you can wrap some love around you.

We know the job market is hell and that lots of great people are losing their jobs so we might be able to help you with any self doubt you're having.

Also, I think in my unqualified view that it’s OK to just think it all sucks and there’s no silver lining to being forced out of your job by a useless populist government. Anger is justified I reckon. So scream at the sky, it’s valid to be furious.

And I personally find my rage to be a great motivator.

Also when I’ve been between jobs I’ve volunteered - to save money I’ve been clear with my volunteer placements that I’m broke and between jobs and have had vouchers for petrol given to me. Lots of places that need volunteers are set up to help people! I volunteer at the moment with City Mission and they’re wonderful.

Feel free to vent or share wisdom here.