you’ve recently lost your job, this article is for you.

Note to reader: As The Salesforce Recruiter, I’ve created an ongoing series to address immediate needs and concerns of those affected by the Covid pandemic within the Salesforce eco system. I recommend watching the videos and subscribing to the channel to stay up to date on new information. This is Part 1 and will cover steps 1, 2 and 3.

I’ve Lost My Job! What am I going to do? 

Whether you’re rolling with the punches, have a strong back up plan or are even grateful to leave your current company, job loss is stressful and ranks high on traumatic events. For some, it’s as painful as the death of a friend. Knowing you’re not alone and that the country is doing its best to unite may not be enough and it certainly doesn’t pay the bills. This article won’t pay your bills either. Only you can do that, so let’s focus first on three things that are within your control.

1. Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

It’s not just ok to mourn, complain, lean on your loved ones and friends, lament, be angry, feel vulnerable, feel afraid, nervous, worried and commonly, devastated. It’s absolutely normal.

If you are the type to take action quickly, do so with caution. Without processing the hurt, fear and anger, unless you’re a skilled actor, it will show to future employers. This stuff is so deep, it’s incredibly hard to mask. You’ll do yourself and those that depend on you more favors by acknowledging you will need some time. Generally at least a couple days to a week. Unless you have a big stash, don’t wait longer than that.

If your spouse is wondering why the next day you aren’t filling out job applications, show them this article. DO NOT INTERVIEW WITHOUT PROCESSING YOUR PAIN.

Misery loves company. Don’t be misery’s friend. Grieve and then stop. It’s ok to talk about things like your feelings and the impact to you and those you care for, but overly negative dialogue that’s repeated creates brain pathways that, like ruts in the road, keep you on track for the wrong destination. It doesn’t take a high Emotional Quotient to smell bitterness. That is one stanky perfume and creates even greater social distancing from the people who matter to you most.

2. Reframe Your Experience

Even though people lose jobs regardless of a pandemic, future employers will understand with great clarity the primary reason behind your recent availability. If we fall at the foot of victimhood we’ll be flatting the curve on our career, so don’t do that. Deeply understanding why you lost your Salesforce job is imperative and it’s all in how it’s framed.

This is my recommended “framing” for your difficult experience.

“I lost my job to save a life. The life of someone who matters. I lost my job to save a company. A company that may live to hire me again. I’m not a victim because I am alive. I am not a casualty because I can still work. I’ve lost my job, but not my career.” 

3. Manage Emotions By Taking Care of Your Body

How much we sleep, the kind of food we eat and how much exercise we get directly impacts our endocrine system.The endocrine system is the collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood. Treat your body like a punching bag and your mood is likely to follow suit.

Don’t make ice cream, Doritos and booze part of your daily routine.  Don’t quit exercise if you already do it. If you don’t, then start. Don’t stay up til 2 a.m., sleep until 11, or forego the sun. Protect your future and your family and your income by looking after your body, and your mood immediately.

Take care of yourself. Seriously!

While steps 1, 2 and 3 are all about self care. Steps 4, 5 and 6 are about arming ourselves with compelling job hunting assets like a pro resume, engaging LinkedIn profile and how to get the information for both that matters most.