Losing one’s job can be traumatic enough. Not only will it affect your financially, it’s going to be an emotional strain on you and your family. Here are eight things that you should do if you were to go jobless today:
1. Get support
It’s natural to feel sorry for yourself, keep quiet or be defensive, but don’t do it! When a company is restructuring or laying off people due to cost cutting, taking it personally should be the last thing you do. Others around you may be affected too, so don’t think you are alone. Best therapy: talk to someone supportive, like your family members or some friends. If you share your feelings, you may find them helping to keep an eye out for new career opportunities.
2. Stay healthy and well groomed
Impressions are still important when you are out of a job. Nobody will hire a person that’s sloppy dressed, untidy and unhealthy. So even in times of stress, keep yourself well-groomed. And you owe it to yourself to be fit. If you can’t go to the gym, there are other healthy alternatives like jogging or walking or … anything you like just to keep the vitality up.
3. Network, network, network
It’s also important to build up your network. A good network and knowing more people will increase your probability of finding a job. So dig up all those old name cards from your drawers and start calling them. Reacquaint yourself with them and through them, to their associates and contacts.
4. Upgrade your skills
This is one of the best times to keep your skills up-to-date. Read books and attend seminars or courses to improve yourself. When you have the skills that provides value, your new employers will have more reasons to offer you a better salary.
5. Update your resume
When was the last time that you updated your JobStreet.com resume? If it has been more than six months ago, it’s time for you log in now to update it with your latest accomplishments and personal achievements. Besides, having an update resume means you can send it off to a job application quickly when a job alert comes along. A few more things to remember: make sure your contact details are current, and make sure you have your referees ready.
6. Remain motivated
Applying to jobs and receiving one rejection after another? Don’t be frustrated by the rejections. Remember the old adage: every rejection brings you closer to an acceptance. Every rejection is a new experience. Continue to focus on the positives and stay motivated.
7. S-t-r-e-t-c-h your every dollar
Make your savings last as long as possible. Buy essential items in bulk can be a solution if they are cheaper. Buy things on a need-be basis and not good-to-have basis. This way, you avoid over-spending.
8. Create other streams of income
The worst thing about losing your job is the loss of income to pay the mortgage and bills. Give some thought to having other streams of income. May not be easy but having multiple streams of income will ensure that you will cushion the landing when faced with the same scenario again.
(This article of mine originally appeared in BlogStreet.)