Bob,
I've been through a few layoffs - so I understand what you're going through. The good news is that you have 3-6 months to sort this out. I would agree with the advice to start to put out feelers. Also, this is a great time for reflection. You appear to have a solid educational background, and I'm unsure of what exactly you do for the chemical company. If you're specialized (IE a chemist to that specific industry) you may have to broaden your horizons.
Judging by the MBA, you may work on the business end. You can look at how those skills may be applied to more stable or emerging industries that have a large runway in terms of career advancement. If you start looking for jobs and you receive an offer, I'd carefully consider if. You'll want to think about your own financial situation, what the severance looks like (how much does it pay, for how long) and how you can do on unemployment.
Say you get offered a job that has a low rate of pay, is a company that you don't want to work for, but know you will be in good shape with the size and length of your severance, unemployment, etc - this is certainly worth considering. Don't just just because you feel to. (Unless you have to - to eat).
Being around 50 isn't necessarily a disadvantage. Well formed company still see you have many years of longevity, but a solid resume and work experience behind you. They may consider you stable, knowledgeable, and competent. Just make sure your resume and interviewing skills are up to date. You may also want to consider alternate routes.
Since your MBA is in process - many states offer programs where you're laid off for additional training and will cover the cost of school while you're on unemployment.
Good luck to you!
I've been through a few layoffs - so I understand what you're going through. The good news is that you have 3-6 months to sort this out. I would agree with the advice to start to put out feelers. Also, this is a great time for reflection. You appear to have a solid educational background, and I'm unsure of what exactly you do for the chemical company. If you're specialized (IE a chemist to that specific industry) you may have to broaden your horizons.
Judging by the MBA, you may work on the business end. You can look at how those skills may be applied to more stable or emerging industries that have a large runway in terms of career advancement. If you start looking for jobs and you receive an offer, I'd carefully consider if. You'll want to think about your own financial situation, what the severance looks like (how much does it pay, for how long) and how you can do on unemployment.
Say you get offered a job that has a low rate of pay, is a company that you don't want to work for, but know you will be in good shape with the size and length of your severance, unemployment, etc - this is certainly worth considering. Don't just just because you feel to. (Unless you have to - to eat).
Being around 50 isn't necessarily a disadvantage. Well formed company still see you have many years of longevity, but a solid resume and work experience behind you. They may consider you stable, knowledgeable, and competent. Just make sure your resume and interviewing skills are up to date. You may also want to consider alternate routes.
Since your MBA is in process - many states offer programs where you're laid off for additional training and will cover the cost of school while you're on unemployment.
Good luck to you!
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