EIGHT months ago Sangita Chawla* weighed about 85 kgs. Despite this she had a dream of making it big as an airhostess. So this 24 year old Mumbai girl went on a rigorous diet and exercise regime to cut out all the flab. Within six months, Sangita weighed just 50 kilograms and was all set for her dream job. She was hired by a leading aviation company, since she met all their requirements now.

Unfortunate for her Sangita's job was one of the many jobs her company decided to take away, but later give it back. "I'm thrilled to get my job back, but of course uncertainty still looms," confesses Sangita. She is not the only one. Across sectors there are fears of cost cutting and consolidation.

"Most people never predict a job loss," continues Aruna Sampat of HR consultancy firm Career Catalysts, "and are caught off guard when they get laid off."

Sampat cuts the bull and tells you what you should do if you lose your job.

1. Don't panic
A job loss has nothing to do with performance, or your ability. It’s more about redundancy of your role in the company. Once this understanding seeps in, you will you be able to concentrate on finding a new job.

2. Make a list
Update your resume and follow a daily schedule. Now that you have time on hand, set aside at least five to six hours a day on job hunting – including research, calls, interviews etc. Make a list of the people and companies which can help you. Be specific on how they can help you.

3. Get aggressive
Make sure that you have your detailed resume up on every job portal there is. Some portals you can put your resume are jobstreet.com, monster.com, naukri.com, yellowjobs.com, timesjobs.com, shine.com etc.

4. Talk to other pros
Focus on what kind of job you want. Assess market situation and make your plan. If a role is interesting but the company is not so much a brand name, are you willing for a lateral move, or would you like to take a cut in salary for a brand? Think through. Talking to senior professionals may help to give you a perspective

Read: Lower salary hike in 2009; How to prepare

Photograph: Getty Images
(Photograph used for illustrative purposes only)

*Name changed on request

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e-mail: Suraj Anand

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