Guest Blog :: Bec Collie
This is for those Adelady’s out there who’ve been made redundant, let go or dismissed — and for those who may be in the future.
I’m pretty sure after five redundancies I’ve gone from a semi-pro to pro in professional rejection! It’s definitely not the words you want to hear…
“Your position no longer exists”.
But the silver lining is that I’ve learnt something every time and grown from it. So for each of my five little set backs I thought I’d share five different things to keep in mind if you find yourself in the same situation. I hope it helps!
1. It’s not you, it’s me.
We’ve all heard that one right!? Rejection is never easy so remember that it’s ok to cry. When you love what you do but it doesn’t feel the same about you, it sucks!
I definitely shed a tear during the process and apologised to my boss a million times for it. You’re only human, but promise me not to dwell too much on this part. You can have a day or two to let it out but get straight back on that horse!
2. 21 questions.
Ask them ALL! No matter how silly or crazy you may think they are, ask them. Knowledge is power. Sometimes you’re not going to get the answers to make you feel better, BUT you asked and can walk away with no regrets.
Other times you discover things you can work on or identify what you don’t want in your next job. I don’t know about you but my dream job has always involved bringing my dog to work. It may not happen but you can totes work towards it. Seek should really add this to their filters.
3. Keep busy.
The first time I was made redundant it was easy to fall into bad habits — after all, who doesn’t love a sleep in! But you need to keep on keeping on.
There are a million free things to do in Adelaide — my favourite is going to the Art Gallery. Plus I’m sure there is something you can do at home that you’ve been putting off.
This time I organised my pantry! I know, so GLAM! I’ve also been to the gym everyday (I’ve lost two kilos!) and my dog is stoked to have my undivided attention.
Previously I’ve also spent some time volunteering — it definitely gives you perspective and helps others at the same time. I’ve volunteered for KickStart for Kids because I think what they do is so wonderful, but pick one that’s right for you!
4. Baby I got your money.
Now this can be the hard part… money. I’m so glad I’ve always had mortgage and credit card insurance during my FIVE redundancies. Ladies, look into it. I don’t have a partner so I’ve had to adult alone through every time.
I’ve worked since I was 13 so not working and not having money is HARD. I’ve used CentreLink, I’m not too proud to accept the help when I need it… but boy it was hard. At the end of the day that’s what it’s there for. I’m also lucky that in my line of work I can freelance so I’ve been able to pick bits and pieces up. If you’re in a similar situation do it… you never know where it might lead.
5. Let’s talk about stress baby.
I’m not gonna lie, each and every time the stress monster has crept in. This time I’ve managed it better than the rest… I’ve done this before, I can do this again. You got this girl!
The power of positive thinking works wonders. I want to make sure that when I’m going to interviews I’m giving the best version of me and not wreaking of desperation! Sometimes this is easier said than done. If you have a good support network it makes it so much easier and that’s what friends are for!
At the end of the day I’m not an expert, I’m just a girl, standing in front of you, hoping that my experiences can help at least one person… because then it’s all worth it.
It is so easy to let this experience get the better of you. You’ll hear a million different things from a million different people. Most of them will mean well, but do what you gotta do. If there is one thing I would say to the newbies of professional rejection it would be to ask for help. Talk to recruiters, contact people on LinkedIn and if you need it, call Lifeline.
Or feel free to message me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn… hell carrier pigeon! Just don’t let it get the better if you.
I’m by no means perfect and there is no perfect way to deal but I have lived through it four times. Here’s to the fifth being just as spectacular as the last.
Bec xx
