How to Prepare When Losing a Job

You see the signs everywhere, as the company begins to struggle to maintain its sales. You know you are likely to get laid off in the next few weeks or months. How do you prepare for this inevitability?

Things You'll Need

• Updated resume
• Telephone

Instructions

Think Ahead

1. Think financially. Save as much money as you can by not going out to dinner or spending frivolously on movies or buying magazines. Try to put away enough cash to compensate for approximately six months of your take home pay.

2. Avoid dipping into your savings if possible. Although you may be eligible for unemployment compensation, remember that this will cover only about 50 percent of your full salary. If you can live on this without dipping into your savings, try to do so. It may take six months to a year to find another job. The higher the job level, the longer it may take.

3. Don't punish yourself. Most of the time, there is nothing you can do about job loss and it is not a negative reflection on you or your performance. Shake off any bad feelings about yourself and look at this juncture in your career as a positive turning point toward a more fulfilling opportunity.

4. Get the word out before you get laid off that you are interested in other positions. Call headhunters and professional associations to advise them of your upcoming availability. Tell all your family, friends, acquaintances and strangers you happen to meet that you are seeking a new job. Have business cards made up for yourself to distribute. Set up your own resume web site if you are computer savvy.

5. Talk to others who know you well. Find out what they think are your key skills and talents. Use this information in your resume. Also, ask a trusted friend if there is anything you can do to improve your appearance, skill set or approach. Listen to the feedback you receive and act upon it.

6. Prepare numerous and varied resumes. One should be chronological and another should be organized by the type of job you most want to obtain. You can smarten up or dumb down a version of the resume for applying for various types of jobs. Have at least three resumes to work from. When you see a great job that you want to apply for, customize one of the resumes and incorporate words from the job advertisement into your resume and cover letter.

7. 

   Sell your skills with a great cover letter. Use the cover letter well and consistently. Tie your existing skills to the job opening by using as many words and phrases from the advertisement as appropriate. However, never misrepresent yourself.

8. Work full time at the job hunting process. It would be easy to sit and sulk or get depressed. Don't allow yourself any self-pity. You are a valuable person with many wonderful strengths and qualities. Best wishes in your search and career.

Tips & Warnings

• Be enthusiastic.

• Don't neglect yourself. Love yourself by keeping up your fitness regimen, getting a haircut or taking a yoga class. These things will help you move away from negative energy and toward positive enrichment.

• Copyright © ThereseHaberman2008