How to Help Someone Through a Job Loss

With the ever-changing status of the job market and economy, chances are that you know someone who has lost a job. Helping someone through a job loss can be difficult without direction. Without support, those who may not be helped through their job loss may become complacent and down on themselves. Your support through this tough time will help get them back in the loop.

Instructions

1. Keep your friend occupied. Everyone may not be able to get a job right away but until they can find something they can get, keep them occupied with activities to get their minds off their loss. These activities do not have to include things that cost lots of money but should be constructive or fun to divert their attention.

2. Discuss options. Assemble information about the options this person may have. If you can gather job opportunities that match your friend's skill set, or even alert him to assistance programs such as unemployment insurance, you will be able to help him have a more proactive frame of mind.

3. Give emotional support. A person who has lost a job needs encouragement and reassurance that she is a valued member of society with skills that are desirable. Being a crutch to lean on or a shoulder to cry on will help.

4. Chip in when possible. No, this doesn’t mean you have to pay the person’s rent, but doing even the smallest things to help her save money will help. Giving rides to interviews or even springing for lunch will help your friend save money as well as build a sense that you are there for her. You may also want to assist in ways to save money and come up with a budget that fits her assets.

5. Provide a reference. When and if the opportunity presents itself, your friend may need your support in obtaining another position. This can be done by providing him with a reference for potential employers. Solid references can be and are usually vital in obtaining a new job.

6. Serve as a networking agent. Get him in touch with friends or associates of your own to speed up the process of finding another job.