If you lose your job, here are some pointers about how to tell your children.
- First, take care of you. Take stock of the talents you have to offer another employer. Take stock of the good things you have in your life.
- If you have a “significant other” in your life, tell your partner before you tell your children.
- Together, tell the kids. Use simple language and short sentences. Tell the truth. “I want to tell you some news. Today, my job was eliminated. The company eliminated many jobs, including mine, because they needed to save money.”
- Anticipate your children’s concerns. Assure your children that they will be okay. “I am going to look for another job. Our family will be okay.”
- If you are worried about how you will survive financially, figure out how you can cut costs until you find another job.
- Include your children in cutting costs but let them know it will be temporary. If your child asks you to buy him or her something and you need to wait until your finances are in better shape, say, “We can buy this for you once I find another job, okay?”
- Let your children know how you are feeling but also assure them that you will be okay. “I am upset that this happened but it has happened to many other people who have gone on and found other jobs. I will be fine.”
- Answer their questions honestly and simply.
- Allow your children to talk to their friends about this. Allow them to confide in others.
- Hug them.
Finally, realize that your children will be closely watching how you handle this challenge in your life. When they see you bounce back from a setback, it will give them confidence to do the same in their lives.
I told the woman I was counseling to tell her son the truth. To tell him how she was feeling. To tell him that she would be okay. To tell him that he would be okay. And to tell him that she loves him.
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Judith Lindenberger has more than 15 years of experience in human resources consulting and is recognized for her innovation and excellence. The Lindenberger Group, LLC supports in-house HR operations by helping you hire, assess, develop and retain the most talented employees quickly, successfully and cost-effectively. Visit their website, call them at 609.730.1049 or email them at Lindenberger Group, LLC.
