Unemployment can be a difficult and stressful time for anyone, but you can take steps to lessen the impact and help regain your financial and emotional footing.
1. Make Sure You Are Properly Compensated
Depending on your job type and employment contract, you may be entitled to some departing benefits: severance pay, paid vacation days that were not taken, and other financial benefits may be available. It is important to research these benefits and convey your requests clearly upon leaving the company to ensure that you get full benefits.
2. Apply for Unemployment Benefits
Applying for unemployment benefits can help, financially, while you search for another job. Although the benefits are not usually as much as you would have made in your previous job, they can help provide food and essentials for your family. Apply for unemployment by visiting your local employment security office or by going online and filing a form. Each state usually has its own website that will guide you in the process.
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3. Do Not Despair
After losing a job, it is easy to slip into depression or despair, which can only increase stress. Try to avoid getting depressed by surrounding yourself with loved ones and friends. A friend or relative can also help you with accountability and motivation needed for a new job search.
4. Write or Update Your Resume
It is likely that your resume will need updating, or you may need to create a new one. Keep it professional and remember to state all work and education you have completed. It should include:
- Previous employment dates
- Synopsis of your skills and abilities
- What you believe you can bring to the workplace
- Previous notable achievements
- Any volunteering you have done
- Three or four credible references, usually previous employers who can recommend you to a new employer
5. Lower Your Expectations
You may have held a high position in your previous job; however, after the layoff, you may stand a better chance of finding a new job if you lower your expectations. While positions such as manager or VP of a company may look good on your resume, you will need to show that you are willing to work in a lower ranking or less glamorous job.
6. Explore All Types of Media While Job Hunting
There are many places to go when you are searching for a new job. Try online job sites, word-of-mouth from friends, and various types of social media, such as Facebook and LinkedIn; also don't discount ads in newspapers. You can also receive help at the local employment office or career office of a local college or university. Place your profile on employment websites such as Monster or CareerBuilder so that employers can find you.
7. Find Part-Time Work or Volunteer
Consider doing some part-time work or even volunteering in your area of expertise. A part-time job will get you out of the house, and you may also earn a small income. If you choose to volunteer, it may not be financially beneficial, but it does prove your willingness to work.
Both of these may work in your favor when job hunting. Potential employers like to see that you are honing your skills while waiting for the next job opportunity.
8. Tighten Your Budget
The loss of an income will require cutbacks and an overhaul of your budget; even if you receive unemployment benefits and severance pay, those funds eventually do vanish. Track every expense and see where you can cut.
9. Change Your Career Options
Depending on your own preferences, this could be an opportune time to explore another profession. Some people use this time to go back to school to earn or finish a degree; others explore professions that they never had the opportunity to pursue before.
Community colleges and state universities are often affordable, and you may qualify for financial aid. In addition, there are online degree programs, such as those at the University of Phoenix.
Contact your previous employer; some companies offer reeducation benefits that can help with tuition and supplies.
10. Organize Your Needs
Keep lists of all of your expenses, needs, and goals. Use these lists to help you readjust your life until you are gainfully employed once again.
