Dear Editor,
I would not dare sit here and try to second guess why the First Caribbean International Bank on the island nation of Anguilla is closing its operations in the near future. Be that as it may, what I can say with some reservation is that major or small banking institutions globally may decide to close one or more of their operations in a particular locale for a myriad of reasons.
So, I respectfully do not necessarily entertain the thought, as someone suggested in another article in your publication, that the closing of the bank is any reflection on the current state of Anguilla’s economy.
More importantly, whatever the reason(s) for the bank’s closure, given the situation at hand, as an educator (secondary and higher education), with a background in workforce and career development, I would like to take this opportunity, to share a word of encouragement with the employees who are affected by the First Caribbean International Bank’s closure.
Your passport to future career success within the 21st century workforce will depend on your taking the high road with a leap of faith and firmly believing that you can turn a negative into a positive. As one door closes, you can rest assured a better one, or a window of opportunity opens. Keep the thought in your mindset that goes like this: “a setback is a setup for a comeback” or “every disappointment is indeed a blessing.”
So, you can choose to join the numerous pity parties that may be hosted around you or I am certain that you will become pro-active to prepare yourself to forge a new path in the career industry of your choice.
First and foremost, arm yourself with information and knowledge of Anguilla’s labour laws, request job references, review any salary or any vacation pay that you may be entitled to, inquire about severance packages or out-placement opportunities, as well as any other terms and conditions of employment contractual benefits that are being provided by First Caribbean International Bank. Make sure to get it in writing.
Write down your future short-term and long-term career goals with a plan of action. Begin to update your curriculum vitae highlighting your relevant skills and experience, arrange job interviews, work your network with anyone who can give you a lead into pursuing a new career opportunity. Attend job fairs, take new workshops that can strengthen your skills. You may even want to explore entrepreneurship, or be willing to exercise being flexible, so that you can transform your skills and experience within the banking industry into a new career opportunity with room for growth.
There is consolation in knowing that in life there is hope, so, therefore, the First Caribbean International Bank closing does not mean your career or life is over. It is indeed the dawning of new day with a ray of sunshine, a new beginning with a host of new possibilities, for many wonderful unforeseen exciting opportunities that you are ready, willing and able to embrace.
The world is your oyster. Carpe diem – seize the day.
Name withheld at author’s request.
