Should I stay or go?

Dan, my company of 30 years will be closing in May 2011. If I stay until the end I will receive a 6-month severance. How can I effectively use the next six months to position myself for a new career, and collect the severance – or is this the right approach? Thanks!  Larry

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Congratulations on getting a 6-month advance notice and then a 6-month severance.  For a company that’s closing, you are being given a very generous exit plan.

• Yes, I recommend you stay where you are and collect the severance.  Think about it – for the next six months you will effectively be paid double.
• Start your job search preparation immediately.  Do you want job duties like you have now or do you want to realign your skills?  After 30 years with the same company you probably recognize new skills and ways those could work for you.
• Update your resume.  Make sure it is a sales brochure for what you want to do – not just a chronological snapshot of what you’ve been doing.
• Identify 30-40 target companies and research those companies for need and fit.  Don’t wait for a company that has “a position open” – any company is a prospect if they need what you do.
• Start an active job search by February 15^th, 2011.  Use a 3-contact approach:  an introduction letter, cover letter and resume, follow-up phone call.  That process will get you offers.
• As you know, I believe you can do this entire process in just 48 Days.  You’ve been given a nice cushion beyond that to do this comfortably and with confidence.

Enjoy the time for taking a fresh look at who you are, where you are and where you want to be.  Unexpected transitions are often just the wake-up call we need to move to higher levels of success and fulfillment.

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