Over the weekend, my friend, Barbara, posted the most poignant, touching message on her Facebook page. She said,
“If you have recently been laid off, and we have worked or collaborated together in the past, please get in touch and let me know how I can help you. Can I write a LinkedIn recommendation for you? Do you need me as a reference? Do you want me to send someone an email to put in a good word or help with networking? Please let me know if there’s anything I can do. DM me and I will follow up to help you get back on your feet.”
I was so impressed. When I left a comment to that effect, she said, “I just want to help. The words were not mine; I copied them from my LinkedIn connection, Karen.” Whatever the case, whether it was Barb who wrote it, or Karen who originated the idea, or even someone from whom Karen may have copied the sentiment, it’s a good one.
There are a lot of people hurting right now. Some were able to get federal assistance in the form of unemployment, a PPP loan, or similar. Others pivoted or shifted or downsized or rightsized or changed direction entirely to keep their businesses alive. Still others find themselves without work, searching for what’s next. If any of these scenarios describe you or feel eerily familiar and close to home, you are not alone. Seek out people like Barb and Karen – other professionals who have your back, who are willing to step up, who may be able to lend a hand, provide a supportive ear, assist in some way, shape or form.
If you are one of the lucky ones – people for whom business is going strong, seek out those around you who could benefit from your wisdom, encouragement and assurance. Do what you can to be like Barbara and Karen and be there for others in your community.
Whatever you need – whatever you can do to help – with empathy and kindness we can find a way to help one another get back on our feet.
Have someone in your life who has been particularly supportive while you’ve been going through a tough time? Have you been that someone – someone like Barb or Karen – who has helped another? Please visit blog.coffeelunchcoffee.com to share your experiences with the CLC Community.
Happy Networking!