It’s never easy or pleasant to lose a job, even if it’s something you didn’t really love. Being out of work is tough, and this year there are more people in this position than there have been in decades.
It’s understandable to be discouraged by the change in employment status, especially if it was out of your control. Managers and companies have had to make tough decisions in light of COVID-19, but a turn in the economy can upend even the strongest company’s bottom line.
Don’t fret: There are ways to help get you back on your feet sooner than you might think.
Take some time to catch your breath.
This is especially important if the news was unexpected. Take a few days off to clear your head, maybe tackle some projects at home that have been shelved for a while. Start to think about what you’d really like to do next: Is it time for a career change? Did you learn a skill at your previous job you’d like to build on with a new company? Think about your future before taking the next step.
Take care of yourself.
This is a stressful situation, and one that might last a little while. Don’t neglect your health! Take walks or go for bike rides. See your friends. Listen to your favorite music. Read a good book. Watch a movie that makes you happy. Get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Eat healthy foods. If you’re feeling down, talk to someone who understands and can provide sound advice — a friend, a family member, a job counselor, anyone you trust. Remember that this is just a temporary setback.
Update your resume and cover letter.
This is a great time to make sure your resume is in tip-top shape. Take some time and update your skills, job experience, certifications, and anything else that can make you attractive to a potential new employer. Resumes should be neat and orderly, with a single font used throughout. Be sure to highlight any achievements and accomplishments and to use numbers whenever possible to quantify your “wins” at work: sales increased by x percent, overhead was cut by y dollars, etc. Numbers jump off the page and can show a potential new employer quickly and easily what you can bring to the table. Make sure to have at least one person read your resume and cover letter over before you start applying to new positions, just to be safe.
Check your network.
Are you on LinkedIn? Do you participate in any social or religious groups? Do you have any friends whose jobs you find interesting? Start reaching out to people and let them know you’re available and looking for work. You never know who might be able to help!
Consider talking to a staffing company.
Recruiters and staffing companies have the inside scoop on who’s hiring, what they’re looking for, how much companies pay, and where your skills might come in handy. They know of open positions that might not be publicly posted and can see where you’d be a good fit. Even if they can only find you a temporary position now, it might become a permanent one later. Plus, it’s a free resource to the job seeker!
Being unemployed stinks. No one likes getting a pink slip, but it happens to most people at some time in their life. Take a little time, gather your thoughts, and then get moving.
Find Your Next Job with Debbie’s Staffing
Debbie’s Staffing would welcome the opportunity to help you find your next great job. We work with outstanding clients, leaders in their fields, and have a database of available jobs. Call us today and let’s get started!