With Target Layoffs Looming, Psychologist Offers Advice
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- On the heels of Target's announcement to cut thousands of workers over the next two years, Governor Mark Dayton met with Target's top executive on Monday. Dayton wanted to know the time-table of the layoffs so the state can help with job services. Most of the cuts are expected to be at the corporate headquarters in Minneapolis.
Allina Psychologist Lauren Fogel said there are things employees can do when fearing a layoff. She said it's important for people to focus on what they can control.
"Whether that's looking at your finances and budgeting or whether that is starting to put your resume back together," Fogel said.
Last month, hundreds of Target employees left headquarters with envelopes in hand. Those layoffs were a result of closing stores in Canada. Thousands more layoffs are expected. Once that happens Fogel believes it's important for those affected to take a day or two to let the information sink in before beginning the job search.
"Have a space where you can sort through what this means, what this looks like for you and your family, and what your next steps may be," Fogel said.
Job stress can take a toll on other parts of life, and Fogel said some depression, anxiety and the feeling of being overwhelmed is normal.
"It's really important to know those feelings need to come and be felt in order for you to move on," Fogel said.
And with that, taking care of oneself is important.
"That might mean making sure that you're getting your physical activity, making sure that you're eating properly, getting enough sleep so that you can make good decisions moving forward," Fogel said.
It may be tough not to take a layoff personally, but Fogel recommends keeping in mind it's about the company and not the individual, when there's a company-wide layoff.
