Some items to consider when you get the box and a big burly security dude is waiting impatiently for you to depart Ford World:
~Save your money. For most, getting a job will probably take several months, especially if your salary is fairly high and you are older. The younger folks who are less established tend to get jobs quicker because of youth and a smaller salary. Three months or longer is standard for obtaining a new position at the professional level.
~Temper your salary (and fringe benefit) expectations. Even though you thought you were underpaid, you really weren't compared to others in business. Ask some of your GM colleagues who recently joined the unemployment ranks how true this is. As someone who has interviewed many folks from the auto companies, this tends to be a theme I've seen.
~For the older group (over 50), consider consulting gigs, especially if your health insurance is covered through a spouse or potentially by Ford.
~Review pension options. If you need to tap into your 401 (k) plans, review with a financial professional your 72(t) options.
~The emotional part for many is tough. For many auto folks, this has been their life since the end of their educational days. It is time to get the help you may need, since it can be a real tough period of time, for both the worker and the family to get through.
~Good luck to all.