The days are long gone during which workers could expect to remain with the same company for decades, and then receive a gold watch and a comfortable pension upon retirement. Now, downsizing is commonplace as companies struggle to maintain a competitive edge in a difficult economy. After being downsized, Chau, like so many others, struggled for months to find a new job. She also dealt with challenging emotions ranging from anger at being let go to grief over losing her connection to a place where she'd shared many happy memories with coworkers. She decided to write her book to help others successfully cope with sudden job loss, both emotionally and practically.

There are plenty of career resources books available for people who want step-by-step instructions on building resumes and preparing for interviews. But Chau's book takes a more comprehensive approach toward overcoming job loss. She identifies the issues that can stymie job seekers and introduces the concept of a three-fold grieving process for those who have been downsized: Ending, exploration, and new beginnings. After one reaches acceptance about the situation, it becomes more likely that one will successfully build a new future.

Throughout this book, Chau shares her own story of being downsized from the company she'd been with for years and her struggle of trying to re-establish a mid-level career. Along the way, she introduces the many stories she'd heard from friends and acquaintances of their own experiences with downsizing during the economic recession. Her book covers all the necessary subjects of overcoming with job loss, including utilizing career transitions firms, networking, submitting resumes, and interviewing. Chau also provides plenty of food for thought for those who wish to consider alternative possibilities. She explores entrepreneurship, franchising, consulting, and second careers.

Despite the immense amount of practical advice Chau dispenses, her book maintains its conversational tone. If one were to call a friend to commiserate about job loss, the conversation might proceed in much the same way as this book. It's much more like sitting down for coffee and gossip with an old friend than like reading a career self-help book. Spoiler alert: Toward the end of the book, Chau does indeed find a new job.

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