Losing your job can be one of the most devastating events in your life. Psychologists have likened it to the death of a loved one and to divorce. Not only do you lose the regular income that you had counted on, you often experience hopelessness and a sense of betrayal as you try to cope with the fact that your employer let you go. Here are some tips on how to deal with unemployment.
Unemployment Benefits
First of all, you need to apply for unemployment benefits. Taxpayers, including you, pay millions of dollars every year into government programs to help people who find themselves out of work. This money, while lasting only a few months, can keep food on the table while you look for another job. If you are laid off, you are almost always eligible for benefits. If you quit the job, or are fired for cause, you probably won’t get them. File immediately, because it will take up to 6 weeks to get your first check.
Prepare Several Resumes
Most employers say that the first reason they reject an applicant is because their resume does not reflect the skills necessary to perform the job. You can rewrite your resume to highlight the skills necessary for a particular job, and draw you to the employer’s attention. If you have a wide range of skills, you may want to rewrite your resume for each application, moving the relative skills to the top of the list.
Use the Internet
You can find all kinds of internet sites that will let you build your resume. You can also build a portfolio online, for use with job applications.
In addition, you can sign up with several different employment sites on the internet. These sites will also create a resume for you, and notify you of job opportunities.
Many potential employers provide online applications. In fact, they often won’t accept hard copy applications. In other cases, you can print off an application and fill it in by hand. If you prefer “typewritten” applications, you can download an Adobe PDF reader that allows you to type in your answers on the application, and print it off.
The Interview
Practice, and then practice some more. Usually, if your resume fits the job description, you’ll receive a phone interview. Some companies like to Skype interviews. If you are asked to Skype, treat it just like an in-person interview. Dress up and fix your hair, and look professional.
Cut Expenses
Of course, you have to cut expenses when you lose your job. Call credit card companies immediately, and tell them your situation. Many of them will drop your interest rate, or even give you a “mercy month” in which you don’t have to make a payment. Eliminate cable, drop vehicle insurance to liability only. If you must, get a home equity loan to help you pay bills. This will also help prevent foreclosure.
Finally, keep up a schedule. An unemployed worker slips into depression, and having a schedule will help.
Photo Credit: Flickr/Connect Euranet
