How to Stay Active During Unemployment

Current economic times are hard and many businesses are downsizing or closing all together. In the United States, the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics shares that unemployment was a high of 6.7% in November 2008 which was higher than the 4.7% a year earlier. These statistics are not limited to the US; other countries are also experiencing higher than normal unemployment rates.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. If you are one of the unlucky ones who are currently unemployed, you will want to use some of this information to get through the situation as well as keep yourself active. One of the first tips is to actively look for work as if you are indeed working. Get up in the morning; review the possibilities both in the newspaper and online. Get out and visit employment agencies to see what career opportunities they have available to you. Pretty much hit the pavement religiously.

2. Apply for any unemployment benefits and/or assistance you may qualify for through the government. The stipend you receive may help you get by until you find and land that next job.

3. Be sure your resume is updated and modified towards each position for which you apply. Ensure your cover letter is tailored specifically to the position you are making application. Find references that are a good match to the job position you are seeking. Know in advance what they would say about you when asked.

4. Get involved in professional groups and actively network. These contacts become very valuable to you while you are looking for another job. The more you network and put yourself out there, the more likely someone within that group or groups will remember you when a position becomes available.

5. If you maintained a client list that you kept with you from your previous employer, and it is not against any former agreements you signed, contact your clients to touch base with them and let them know you are actively looking for employment. They may just have the job you seek.

6. Keep and maintain copies of your job evaluations, commendations, customer comments, and anything else you might want during a job search. If you didn’t keep a file of these documents, try to get a copy from your previous employer. They can come in handy when you go for an interview.

7. Look into new careers. Is there another career you’ve been dying to try but haven’t because you’ve been locked into your job? Perhaps now is the time. Do your research online. If you don't have computer access at home, go to the library. Talk with career counselors, clergy, friends, neighbors, your association memberships, and anyone else who may be able to get you a lead on another job.

8. Visit Monster.com and post your resume online. Investigate other online employment sites and post your resume there as well. Use social networking sites like My Space, Face Book, and Linked In to expand your networking and job search.

9. Finally, remain positive and persistent. Some days you may find yourself getting frustrated but remember the goal at hand and continue to try your best and put your best self forward. Good luck!

Tips & Warnings

• Remain positive and upbeat.
• Keep on trying, each and every day.
• Don't give up.
• If you feel frustrated, seek assistance from a professional counselor.

Resources

• Monster.com
• Yahoo Hot Jobs

[goodselfme]

on 9/28/2009 Good tips to stay active during unemployment.

[jenng]

on 8/8/2009 Great article on How to Stay Active During Unemployment 5*