Layoffs and New Beginnings

manwithbriefcase10051581.jpgLoosing your job is a stressful, heart-rending event. Looking for a new job can be a long and stressful process, especially if the economy is one in which jobs are scarce. Hopefully, you have built up an emergency fund that can support you while you look for new employment. There are some things you can do for yourself to help you find an even better job. Here are some tips on the first things to do when you loose your job.

Tip #1: First Impressions.

The first thing you'll want to do when you loose your job is to spruce up your resume. Make sure it is up to date and looks new. You resume is how you get your foot in the door at a new job, so it's a no-brainer to get it looking sharp and containing all the information a prospective employer would need to garner interest and invite you in for an interview.

Tip #2: Be a Blab!

I wouldn't normally be one to recommend you talk about yourself a lot, but when you've lost your job, people need to know you are available. Don't be self-conscious about not having a job. You are a free agent and people need to know. Part of telling people that you don't have a job and are currently looking for employment is so you can build a team of support around you. People will keep their eyes and ears open for you and it never hurts to have more than just you looking for your next employment opportunity, so tell everyone.

Tip #3: Give Yourself Away.

The surest way to finding a new job quickly is to get some exposure. Give your resume to anyone and everyone that you know. Resumes get passed along and someone is bound to know someone who wants you. If you take your resume to potential employers, even when they aren't asking for it, you may be surprised to find that people make room in their company when they find someone they think might be valuable, even if they aren't hiring at the time. The best position you could get with a new employer is one that was specifically designed around you and your talents. Hand out those resumes and give yourself away.

Tip #4: Get Your Ducks in a Row.

When you loose your job, call up your old employer or someone at the company that would give you a good reference. Ask them if they'll be a business reference for you and get that duck in its row. References can set you apart from the field of competitors if they're good, so get on top of it right away.

Tip #5: Learn It, Love It.

When you are sharpening your resume you may need to brush up on some skills you have included, or learn some new ones to fill in the gaps. Take your down time to expand your skill base. Employers love employees they hardly have to train. If you've always wanted to learn how to do something, now is the time to do it, even if it's golfing. You never know when a golfing hobby could come in handy at a job interview.

Tip #6: Explore Your Options.

Do you really want to get into a job that is exactly like your old one? If you liked your old job, you can disregard this tip. But if you didn't like your old job, now is the time to explore your options. You have been given a golden opportunity to change your future if you decide to seize the moment and make a change in what you do.

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