Laid off From Your Oil and Gas Position? Here’s What to Do.
The energy industry shifts constantly – which means, unfortunately, that many of its workers find themselves holding pink slips. If you’ve been laid off from a position with an oil and gas company recently, here’s how to get back on your feet and into a great new job.
- Take a (short) break. Taking a few days to decompress can help you process your feelings about the layoff and maintain some perspective. Spend a few days engaging in a hobby you enjoy, like hiking or gardening. Don’t make any big decisions, and don’t rush into firing resumes at every job posting you can find. Instead, spend the time reflecting on what you want from a new job.
- Crunch the numbers. Take a look at your finances so you know where you stand. Work out your household budget, and compare it to your severance package, unemployment benefits and other resources. Determine where you can cut back in order to give yourself as much time as possible to look for a new job.
- Tell a story. Once you’ve processed your initial shock, fear, anger or other negative emotions, create a simple way to frame your layoff so you can discuss it objectively and with an upbeat tone when potential employers ask about it. For instance, you might say, “The company went through some restructuring, which gave me the chance to rethink my career. Currently, I’m looking for the following….” This framing explains where you’ve been without dwelling on it, and it keeps you focused for the future.
- Work with a recruiter. Having a staffing firm on your side provides a number of benefits. Your recruiter becomes an ally who can help you think positively about the future, as well as find opportunities you hadn’t considered. Your recruiter also helps “sell” you to energy companies that can offer both the position and the culture which will allow you to thrive. And your recruiter keeps working to help you find a great job – even when you need to take a break.
At FootBridge Energy Services, our experienced recruiters can help you “bounce back” from a layoff and into a great new position in the energy industry. Contact us today to learn more about our job opportunities in the energy sector.
