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Positive and optimistic people find it easier to cope with job-loss, and making the transition to new careers. But not all of us are naturally inclined to see the glass half-full. How can those with a less rosy take on the world bounce back from the blows of job-loss, straightened financial circumstances, and loss of the other positives that a job provided?
The research suggests that being connected with others is a very real way to getting the best from career transition. Connected people are more likely to hear of job opportunities. And being socially connected - to family, friends and community groups provides the social sustenance that most of us need.
Paradoxically, it is those positive and optimistic people who are more likely to be socially connected. We call them extroverts.
While extroversion is partly hard-wired, there is no reason that we can't flex our extroversion capability to help us through the challenges of career transition. Five hints for acting a little more extroverted:
1. Obviously technology helps. You can extend your friends and contacts on Facebook and LinkedIn.
2. You can volunteer - at charities or as an unpaid intern in a business.
3. You might feel shy about having the neighbours over for a bbq (what will you say when they get to the 'so what do you do for a crust?' question?). But social events give you the chance to tell them what they might have guessed already, and the opportunity to tell them the sort of job you are after.
4. You can do more with your family - including helping some of the extended family catch up on their chores and maintenance and generally being sociable.
5. How long is it since you talked to some of the people you went to school with, or played sport with? If that sounds a bit out there socially - again technology can help in the form of 'lost friends' sites - you need only make the virtual connection.
It is worth being a bit strategic with your connecting. If you've been to a professional networking session and you are wondering if you should go to a professional development session where you'll meet the same people or to a catch-up with previous workmates - then take the option that connects you to new networks. That's if you can't go to both!
Many of these social connections will be at the level of renewing contact with acquaintances. If you are not so extroverted, you may be inclined to go with depth - fewer but deeper relationships, rather than breadth - many acquaintances. Obviously this tough time is when you want to be keeping close to your friends, and sharing your feelings, as well as listening to their ideas.
Looking for a new job, in what can seem like a new world for job-seekers, is going to be tough at times. Keeping connected to community, family, friends, and others who you will discover will help provide support as well as help you succeed in this challenge.
