Naked CIO: I've lost my job

The Naked CIO has lost its job - but will keep on writing about IT and sharing experiences as it copes with a less-than-ideal situation.

I've lost my job. I suppose it is rather topical that I write about my own demise in light of many others going through the same experience. My company has centralised my function and has elected that my role is duplicative throughout the much larger organisation.

In some ways I am thankful. The real talent of my team has been spared and if I was able to jump in front of a bullet meant for them, then this is something I gladly take. My respect for those who have been with me on my journey is unparalleled and I could not have asked for a better team.

I saw the bullet coming for some time so it is not something that shocks me. Equally I believe I am one of the lucky ones. I was looked after and believe I have many opportunities even in this job market.

The most important thing to remember in this type of situation is to remain confident and positive. Don't become your own worst enemy. It is counter-productive to add weight to your situation through foreboding and stress. Keep your head up and remember who you are and what you have to offer.

Another thing to remember is: network, network, network. People who you least expect will help you out. I remember when I was looking for a job previously and I sent an email to an acquaintance who I had known only through work on a committee. I didn't expect anything but his support and encouragement, not to mention contacts lead to a fabulous opportunity and job.

Also: keep busy. Ensure you are always thinking and doing. Don't allow yourself to become complacent, either in looking for new opportunities or in your home life. It will lead to lethargy and this is professional suicide.

In my life everything happens for a reason and each step back ends up being two steps forward. There is, no matter what other people may think, a silver lining. As long as you keep confident and positive, as long as you continue to work hard and reach out to those you know, you will be OK.

Use this time to be inspired. All too often we complain in our working lives that we do not have enough time to do the things we enjoy, like fixing up our homes, going on that vacation or keeping up with that hobby. Don't forget those words -fix your house, take that much-needed vacation and pick up these hobbies. You deserve it.

As for me, I am still the Naked CIO and will still write articles about the travesties of modern IT.

I will do it with zest and even impart some of the experiences I have looking for another job in today's market. It isn't easy but no one said it had to be.

For now, I am finishing reading a book I have long wanted to finish. I'm going on vacation - and am truly excited about many opportunities to continue my pursuit to lead IT departments to be better and more cost effective.