"Pink slips," considered by Generation X a relic of the Depression era is now the buzzword of recent downsizing, especially in the dot-com sector.  With the euphoria of the past few years, a mindset that things would never change became the prevailing wisdom.  Reminders of a downturn as an inevitable part of the economic cycle were dismissed.  Today, reality prevails.  Making the transition from the way things were in the job market to the way things are means being current in job search techniques.

Dear JVS,

I received a generous severance package due to a corporate merger and I’ve decided to take time to relax and reflect on what I want to do when the downsizing takes effect.  My wife is unhappy with my game plan.  Am I on target in my thinking?

Looking for Leisure

Dear Looking,

Don’t dawdle.  This job market is vastly different from what it was six months ago.  There are a significant number of workers who have been downsized with more to come and job growth, especially at your level, is flat.  I hope you do not view your package as an invitation for extended recreation.  

Certainly take some time to catch your breath, but make good use of your time by initiating your job campaign and letting people know that you are looking for new opportunities.  Researching new options and figuring out how to get where you want to go takes longer than you may anticipate.  When you finally have a direction, you can craft a new resume and interviewing strategies and go full speed ahead.  Hopefully your severance pay will cover the total job search process if you don’t spend too much time recreating upfront.  

One last thought.  Potential employers may think you are not a serious candidate if you spend too much time on the golf course.    

Dear JVS,  

I’ve been asked back for a third time for a panel interview and I’m a little nervous.  Do you have any hints I can use?

David (Bucktown)

Dear David,  

First of all, you should feel good that they are really interested in you and are investing the time of critical decision makers in your candidacy.  Look at this as probably the last step prior to hiring.  

Go into the interview with confidence, well prepared with your self-marketing campaign integrated into the company’s needs and long term plans, which you have carefully researched.  Address responses to the person who asks the questions, but be sure to acknowledge the others.  Any conversations you initiate should include everyone on the panel.  

Although this may be stressful, how you handle difficult questions, colleagues from different departments and interactive situations speaks to your poise and ability to work with a variety of professionals, replicating in particular, cross-functional teams which are standard in today’s workplace.