Sometimes dismissal comes as a sledgehammer blow. You lose control of your own career; have no say in the decision. It feels like an emotional roller coaster that you are not prepared for.
It can be a shock that pushes you into the deep end and forces you to let go of control.
It is important to understand that this is a natural part of the process.
Often we do not have control over a lot of external factors such as market conditions, restructuring, or other business decisions. But what we do have control over is how we deal with this change.
The circle of control, influence and commitment
A theory by American Stephen Covey.
- Control: At the core of this circle is "control. When dismissed, it seems like you lose control, but you always have control over your reaction to change. We help you discover and strengthen this inner control.
- Influence: Directly around the circle is "influence. While you may not always be able to control the situation, you can influence it. Together, we identify the aspects you can influence and help you leverage them.
- Involvement: The outer layer represents "involvement. Sometimes there is involvement in things over which you have no direct control. At Team Travvant, we encourage you to stay involved in the process, but recognize where your energy can be used most effectively.
The goal is to focus on things you can influence. This, according to Covey, is how you enter a virtuous cycle. You experience less frustration, more control and motivation.
We strongly believe in increasing your awareness of this model. By understanding what lies within your control, influence and commitment, we empower you to take purposeful action.
It is a powerful tool to reshape and grow your career, even in the midst of change.
The grieving process at resignation
It's okay to grieve after being laid off. Work is often an integral part of your identity and loss of job often means loss of identity.
As with the loss of a loved one, we experience different emotions: denial, anger, grief, bargaining and acceptance. We understand that this grieving process takes time. That's why we give you that time and offer a listening ear and empathy.
Outplacement: more than finding a new job quickly
Outplacement at Travvant, People First is not just about finding a new job quickly. Sometimes you need time to process the layoff and reinvent yourself. The outplacement process helps you through this grieving process.
The Kubler-Ross Mourning Process
When faced with dismissal, we often begin an emotional journey similar to the well-known Kubler-Ross grief process, also called the "change curve."
Swiss psychologist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross identified five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Know that these stages are not always linear, but rather an emotional landscape through which you must pass.
- Denial and shock: Denial is often the first feeling at layoff. It is understandable that you may not immediately believe what is happening. You feel surprised and uncertain about the future. We encourage you to acknowledge this emotion and give space to the reality of change.
- Anger and bargaining: These emotions may follow when reality begins to sink in. It is important to understand that these emotions are normal. You feel the decision is unfair and try to negotiate it, even though you know the decision has already been made for you. Your coach will help you channel these emotions and take steps to regain control.
- Depression: Depression can occur when you fully realize the impact of the loss. You feel tired, restless, even guilty or worthless. People sometimes withdraw into themselves and communication becomes difficult. Your coach stands beside you, offers support and helps you see everything in perspective again.
- Acceptance: This is not the end point, but just a starting point. It is the gateway to recovery. But the road up is a tricky one. Regularly you fall back to an earlier stage. Together we work on embracing change, discovering new possibilities and shaping a positive future.
Taking back control
Outplacement is an exercise in self-analysis and self-discovery. Together with your coach, you define your strengths, values, priorities and goals.
We support you in formulating a clear job goal and taking renewed control of your career. At Team Travvant, we believe that every change brings opportunities, and we are here to discover those opportunities with you.
So, if you find yourself feeling lost after being laid off, remember that it is a phase, not a final destination. With your outplacement coach by your side, you'll move through this grieving process and come out stronger and more confident