“I’m sorry. We have to let you go.” One statement that can drastically change your life, before Panic sets in.
It’s understandable! However, it’s not the End of the World!
One of the most important things to remember is to get back on track as quick as you can. That being said, if you’ve hit a road block or encountered a serious setback; sometimes the best thing to do is give yourself time to readjust.
Losing a job can create a very big mental barrier, so make sure you’re in a good place before you start looking elsewhere. Ensure that you are surrounded by encouraging people who motivate you.
So “What should you do when you Lose Your Job?” Here are 15 Things you can do yourself:
1) File for unemployment: If you lose your job through no fault of your own, you should be eligible for unemployment. Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible even if you were fired. Here’s what you need to know about filing for unemployment; “It differs from state to state.”
2) Check on health insurance options: Check with your manager or your Human Resources department on options for continuing the health insurance coverage; or investigate options for getting a new policy to cover you while you’re out of work.
3) Cut down on unnecessary spending from your budget: Once your primary source of income is gone, you can’t afford to spend as much as you once did. It’s time now to think about how you can save some money. It’s also going to last for a much shorter time now.
4) Understand out your health insurance: Even if you are perfectly healthy, you have no control over what life may throw at you, and it’s better to be insured than having to pay insane medical bills, should something happen to you. Hence it’s best to apply for some.
5) Update Your Resume: Update your resume to include your recent work experience. Be sure to include your most relevant skills and match your qualifications to the job. This will increase your chances of getting selected for an interview.
6) Update your LinkedIn profile: If you’re applying for professional positions, you’re going to be searched for on LinkedIn. Update your LinkedIn profile. Ensure all profile activities match what is mentioned in your resume.
7) Connect with your network: This is a good time to connect with your network. Use LinkedIn, your college alumni network, and your professional and personal networks to help your job search. Ask your connections to let you know if they come across jobs that would be a good fit.
8) Reach to your Network: Start reaching out to people in your professional network. Let them know you are searching for a new job, and see if they have any leads. Keep people informed of what you are up to and what you are looking for. You never know what doors may open.
9) Make Finding a New Job Your Full-Time Job: OK, so you might not spend eight hours a day looking for a new job (that could be a bit excessive), however make finding a new job your top priority. At this point, there is nothing more important than finding a steady job to pay the bills.
10) Learn New Skills: Make yourself marketable to potential employers by adding a few new skills to your resume. Attend a seminar on social media marketing, ‘or’ take a programming course at your local community college.
11) Stay Healthy: Don’t get into a rut if you lose your job. Get yourself on an exercise program. Go outside and go for a run or walk, ‘or’ go for a swim, ‘or ‘take a hike. Just get out and be active! Also, if you don’t cook regularly, consider learning how to put together a few healthy meals.
12) Don’t Get Discouraged: You are probably going to not hear back from more employers than you expected. It’s NOT YOU! Unfortunately, some companies don’t get back to applicants who weren’t selected. At times, the interview process may be much longer than you anticipated. You may be asked to interview three or four, or even more times, before a hiring decision is made. Expect this to take a while, and try not to feel let down if you don’t get hired right away.
13) Practice interviewing: The best way to prepare for an interview is to practice, practice again and then practice some more. Review the most common interview questions employers ask. This way you’re prepared to answer any, or most of them.
14) Say thank you and follow up: Manners matter! In fact, they can make a difference in whether you get a second interview call, ‘or’ even a job offer. Take the time to follow up and thank your interviewers. They will remember you!
15) Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Finally, the most important piece. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Friends and family will be glad to assist, but they can’t do much if they don’t know that you need assistance. Whether you need a loan, a ride, a babysitter, someone to proof your job application material, or borrow an outfit to wear for an interview; don’t hesitate to ask.