In the top five list of life stressors is the loss of a job. When a job loss occurs whether it is expected or unexpected, it shakes your confidence. Statistics indicate that according to 2010 US Census data 36.1 of people who completed the Census experienced a job loss in the years between 2005-2007. That is over 1/3 of the workers the United States who participated in the census. The unemployed collected 116 billion dollars in 2011. Suffice it to say, job loss is not an unusual situation in our current economy. How do we deal with this loss in a way that is healthy and productive?
1. Finish Strong – At times, even after you have been notified of a job loss, you must continue to function in that environment. Conduct yourself with integrity and finish strong. You may be hurt and/or angry about the job loss, but try to remember that the people around us are not usually involved your losing your job. Try to remember how you would want to be treated by others if they lost a job. It is tempting to act out in anger if you feel wronged, but choose the high road. Let that be the memory they carry of you.
2. Take Control of the Things You Can – Losing a job causes a loss of our sense of control over our environment. Use this as an opportunity to catch up on things that must be done at home. Send resumes, write letters, and seek Unemployment if you are entitled to it.
3. Manage your emotions – You will be experiencing a great deal of stress during this time, be kind to yourself. It is tempting to act out in anger, but talk to people you trust and respect. Use relaxation strategies to maintain your composure, and take a break if you need it.
4. Reach out – Make contact with people who know you well, who can support you during this tough time.
5. Think about the job loss and learn from the situation. Do you need a new type of job? Do you need different or more effective skill? This is a good time to educate yourself about advances in your field.
6. Update your resume - If you plan to seek employment elsewhere, take some time to update your resume, get letters of recommendation.
7. Make a plan – Use the Internet to search for job openings in your field. Send out lots of resumes and cover letters. Keep track of these and follow up with a phone call in two or three days.
8. Use interviews as learning experiences – Each employer may be looking for something different, but as you practice your interview skills, you will become more confident which will make you more marketable.
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April 16, 2013
Dealing With A Job Loss
In the top five list of life stressors is the loss of a job. When a job loss occurs whether it is expected or unexpected, it shakes your confidence. Statistics indicate that according to 2010 US Census data 36.1 of people who completed the Census experienced a job loss in the years between 2005-2007. That is over 1/3 of the workers the United States who participated in the census. The unemployed collected 116 billion dollars in 2011. Suffice it to say, job loss is not an unusual situation in our current economy. How do we deal with this loss in a way that is healthy and productive?
1. Finish Strong – At times, even after you have been notified of a job loss, you must continue to function in that environment. Conduct yourself with integrity and finish strong. You may be hurt and/or angry about the job loss, but try to remember that the people around us are not usually involved your losing your job. Try to remember how you would want to be treated by others if they lost a job. It is tempting to act out in anger if you feel wronged, but choose the high road. Let that be the memory they carry of you.
2. Take Control of the Things You Can – Losing a job causes a loss of our sense of control over our environment. Use this as an opportunity to catch up on things that must be done at home. Send resumes, write letters, and seek Unemployment if you are entitled to it.
3. Manage your emotions – You will be experiencing a great deal of stress during this time, be kind to yourself. It is tempting to act out in anger, but talk to people you trust and respect. Use relaxation strategies to maintain your composure, and take a break if you need it.
4. Reach out – Make contact with people who know you well, who can support you during this tough time.
5. Think about the job loss and learn from the situation. Do you need a new type of job? Do you need different or more effective skill? This is a good time to educate yourself about advances in your field.
6. Update your resume - If you plan to seek employment elsewhere, take some time to update your resume, get letters of recommendation.
7. Make a plan – Use the Internet to search for job openings in your field. Send out lots of resumes and cover letters. Keep track of these and follow up with a phone call in two or three days.
8. Use interviews as learning experiences – Each employer may be looking for something different, but as you practice your interview skills, you will become more confident which will make you more marketable.
