TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Companies that are in financial crisis tend to evaluate their employees based on their performances. In such condition, layoffs are inevitable.

A clinical psychologist at the University of Indonesia (UI) Yudiana Ratna Sari said that employees who are being laid off are in different psychological conditions according to their age. Employees age around 30 may see layoffs as an opportunity to develop themselves. On the contrary, those who are at their 40s may view it as a problem. “They are used to having routine activities, with a fixed monthly income for their family, but they are being taken away instantly,” Sari said.

In such condition, Sari expects companies to give enough time to employees. “Don’t do it abruptly because they would not have time to think about their future strategies,” she said. Employees better take the following steps:

1. Remain Calm

Uncontrolled anger could make you oblivious of information. As a result, laid off employees might not be able to absorb information on compensation, leave rights and insurance.

2. Don’t blame yourself

Layoff often takes place as a mean for companies to reduce expenditure. Meaning that it is not the employees’ fault. Laying off is not similar to dismissal for poor performance.

3. Continue to perform well

Typically, there is time between the issuance of layoff notices and the last day of work. During that period, keep working well and avoid leaving a poor impression.

4. Ask for support from the loved ones

Share stories with friends and families to reduce stress.

5. Prepare strategies

Decide on what to do while unemployed, whether to go back to school, take courses or seek business opportunities. Take a look at your financial condition.

6. Optimistic of better future

Use your spare time to reflect on your actual dreams. What is your passion? The spare time could present an opportunity for you to chase your dreams.

DINI PRAMITA