So what happens when executives lose their job? A study by Connie Wanberg, Associate Dean at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, looked at the effects on mental health in people after losing a job. Her findings are quite interesting over a 20-week period. A few worth noting:
- People who actively engaged in more intense job searches exhibited better mental health than those who were more laid back in looking for a job.
- Looking for a job is a lonely, unpredictable process with no rules, no guarantees, no supervision, and a huge amount at stake.
- Motivation and reward must come from within and are directly linked to an ability to push ahead in job search.
The findings from Professor Wanberg’s study mirror what I have found in my years of coaching to be true. Another layer of job loss that has been significant to my executive clients (especially men) is that their self-esteem is tied to their job. They define themselves by what they do and who they are within an organization. Without that purpose and status, they start to question their ability to achieve their objectives and goals, and lose their way in life. This can be devastating to the executive and their family.
Keys to good mental health during job search:
- Stay connected. Networking is still the most effective tool during job search.
- Work with a career coach. Create your own support team with a coach that can help you with job search strategies and stay motivated.
- Do the time. Be proactive and schedule at least 17-20 hours a week for dedicated job search activities.
- Start with the end in mind. Stephen Covey’s famous quote says a lot to an executive in job search. When focusing on the success of finding a job, you work from a higher energy level and happier disposition, which amazingly moves the process forward faster.