Losing ones job can be a traumatic experience. At that point you feel lost, hurt and overwhelmed as you try to get a handle on what you should do after this major, unexpected change.
At that point despite the motivational talks others or you might give yourself, it is near impossible not to react emotionally – for crying out loud, that’s your job!
Many people are living this experience owing to the global pandemic. To them, the comfort of providing for themselves is off the table and they’re unsure, yet hoping that they can get off the statistics of the unemployed. If you’re in this situation, keep hope alive. The next important thing is to stop wishing and start working your way to where you want. Working from a position of knowledge is how you get things done.
Apply for unemployment benefits right away:
If your country gives you this benefit, don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed. It’s your right and you’ve been paying taxes, so you deserve to collect it when it is needed. At least it will go some length in putting food on the table for you and the family.
Get Yourself Together:
Losing your job is one of the most stressful events that anyone can go through in life. You’ll experience fear, anxiety, depression, resentment, and anger at some point and then periods of positivity at some other times. Give yourself time to decompress and process what has happened. It’s okay to feel bad. There’s no need to pretend that everything is wonderful.
Know that it’s not just you that is going through this unfortunate experience. This happens to almost everyone at one point in their career. Use this time wisely to deeply contemplate your next move. Think of what you want to do, your chances of getting that type of job and whether it will pay what you require.
Keep your heart with all diligence – Proverbs:
Be cognizant of your mental, emotional and physical state. If you find yourself declining rapidly, seek assistance from a licensed professional. There’s no harm in doing so. You need clarity to navigate through these unclear waters.
Outline a daily regimen to keep you focused. This relates to your personal and also professional life. You need to get up in the morning at a set time and have a daily action plan the night before, jot down what you will do the next day. Don’t just laze through the day. Some employers during interview could ask you what you did with your time off work. Let them realise you’re an asset.
Seek and you shall find:
For some, the job falls on their laps at home. Except you’re convinced you’re such a gifted one that is highly sought after, get your butt off your sofa! Your job-seeking agenda could be spending time searching the internet for opportunities and applying to them or networking online with former co-workers, acquaintances, friends and others who can offer help, point you to the right people at the companies you want to work with. Don’t get it twisted. There are job vacancies and one of those empty office chairs could be yours.
Be deliberate:
Create tailored résumés for each job you’re applying to/for. Employers are too busy to look at resumes that don’t fit the job description. Update your LinkedIn profile and contribute on the platform, that’s how you get seen. Get in touch with hiring managers or recruiters who are experienced in your field.
Craft and practice your elevator pitch especially as interviews are now conducted virtually.
Self development:
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back from recruiters. Nobody said it would happen just the first time. Use that opportunity to develop yourself. Learn a new language, a new skill. Take a look at where your industry is headed and learn the skills of the future. Your resume will have a brighter look that way.
Despite the challenges, you have to stay positive on your mission to finding a new job. Have courage and faith that this challenging time will pass and things will get better.
Ibiene is rooting for you!!!!
Have we missed any tips, please share with us in the comment section.