Organizations for the past several years have been using the slogan "people are our most important resource," and while they certainly mean every word, this doesn't prevent them from having to make difficult decisions regarding their people strategy.

One such decision occurs when a downsizing or "rightsizing" of employees must be accomplished. This is typically the result of a merger, an acquisition, a sale of the business or simply the result of tough economic times that companies occasionally face. Organizations that truly believe their people are an important resource will plan for the challenging transition.

For instance, more and more organizations are providing corporate training in employee career management as part of their overall, long-term professional development. Programs such as these are directed towards helping employees take responsibility for any of the many career challenges they will confront. Other organizations simply ensure they provide a more focused career transition service to those who are being rightsized or downsized out of the organization.

Either way, these services are valued by employees; they demonstrate the sincerity of the organizational philosophy and help to make the transition to another life somewhat easier.

While the employer can provide tools and strategies for employee transition, it cannot take responsibility for the employees' emotional response. This is solely the responsibility of the employee. And to be honest, emotional stability is where many employees falter. They simply cannot keep up a high level of personal morale during a career transition. Some individuals, particularly those with confidence in their skills, will recover quite quickly, while others risk sliding into a deep depression.

With so many workforce changes occurring lately, I offer the following tips to help those who are experiencing difficulty during their career transition period:

-- Take the initiative to gain basic knowledge of the change and transition cycle, as this applies to personal as well as work life and it will provide you with valuable guidance on flowing through the cycle of change. Recognize that it's normal to initially deny what you are hearing. It is normal to be shocked and then angry. It's normal to resist this change and it's normal to feel confident one day and not the next. It's normal to feel fear and yet begin to explore new options. Keep in mind: Your feelings are normal.

-- When talking to friends and colleagues, beware of spending too much time focusing on negative thoughts and gossip; instead, focus on the future and innovative strategies on how to turn crisis into opportunity.

-- Review the tenure period with your current employer and identify as many accomplishments as you can. This can include even the smallest problem that you might have resolved. Pat yourself on the back for every single one, every single day until you leave.

-- Examine and acknowledge everything that you have learned during your tenure; prioritize your most important learning and think about how this has assisted you to grow professionally and how it will help you to get a new job.

-- Take a moment and examine your current job: Make a list of what you liked and didn't like; prioritize these and create a checklist of what you will be seeking in your next job.

-- Appreciate all of the friends, colleagues and customers you have met in your current employment; identify those who have good networks and who would be willing to help you; pride yourself on the long list you will create.

-- Recall all of the training and professional development programs you have attended during your tenure; review the materials and refresh your memory about what you learned and who you met; think about how you can apply them in your new job.

-- Take time each day to focus on your self-esteem. Make note of the many things you appreciate about yourself, your technical skills, your ease of communication and/or your ability to get along with your co-workers. Look in the mirror every day and smile.

-- Share with colleagues what you enjoyed about working with them and ask for their feedback about you.

-- Start contacting and increasing your professional network; call people and meet them for coffee or lunch; ask who you should talk to in their network; meet as many people as you can during your notice period; be sure to let people know you are looking for opportunities.

-- Develop and update your resumé. Utilize a skills-based resumé that highlights what you can do rather than focusing on job duties and your former employers.

-- Develop a job hunting and marketing plan and treat it like your own special project. Implement this plan systematically, carefully and consistently.

-- Scan the newspaper ads and job boards; read every job profile and pick out statements that describe you; these help to boost self-esteem and you can also use them in your presentations.

-- Practise what is called positive self-affirmations and/or positive self-talk. While this might sound foolish and feel awkward, if you don't say good things to yourself, who will? Find a set of positive statements that you can repeat to yourself whenever you get down and depressed. These are like mantras that can instantly cheer you up by reminding you of your strengths and achievements;

-- Take careful note of your stress level, particularly focus on the issues that lead to anxiety and fear. Reinforce and/or develop your stress management strategy such as listening to music, going for a walk, exercising. No matter what it is, stick to it diligently.

-- Meet your financial adviser and develop a practical plan that will manage the financial stress and help you to move forward to your next job.

-- If you had a vacation planned, take it. This will be the most valuable time to heal and restore your equilibrium. Rejuvenate and get ready for your next journey of finding work.

-- Offer assistance to colleagues or volunteer at a favoured organization. There is nothing like the feeling of satisfaction when helping others; reach out to your colleagues, offer your skill. Remember that saying, "what goes around comes around." Helping others will bring good things your way.

Organizations have been applying the philosophy that "people are our most important resource" for some time and it has been effective in building morale, increasing job and customer satisfaction and increasing profitability. Employees, especially during times of career transition, must take on this same philosophy. You need to believe and act on the fact that you are your own most important resource. You are the only one who can ensure a positive personal attitude and ensure career success. Apply the tips stated above to assist you on a successful journey.