Unemployment Survival Guide

Depending on whose statistics you believe about one in 10 Americans is without work. It seems like it’s a lot more than that. Unemployment has become the latest fad. So what if you have been laid off how you survive? The competition for jobs is fierce. It is easy to become discouraged.

First off don’t take it personal. It is likely that your unemployment is due to economic and financial conditions more so than your ability to do your job. It is natural to be bitter, to be angry, and to be depressed. Hopefully this lasts only a few days and you will  get it out of your system.

As hard as it’s going to be to realize try to look at this as a positive. If you’re like most people you didn’t like your job anyway. Look at this as an opportunity to reinvent yourself. Most people change careers or professions six or seven times over their lifetimes. This may be your chance to get it right.

After collecting your last check, your new job is finding a new job. You need to put as much effort into this process as you did any job you’ve ever had. The motivation to look for a new job will not be great. Especially if you got comfortable in your old job. Start with updating your resume. This will not only help with the process, but define clearly who you are, and what skills that you possess.

File for unemployment benefits. You may have never been on unemployment in your life. That doesn’t mean you will be now however you need to prepare for the worst. Unemployment compensation usually takes weeks to process in most states.

You’ll want to check on your health insurance coverage. If you are married it is possible to be carried on their plan. If that isn’t an option you might be eligible for COBRA coverage, which allows terminated employees to continue insurance for a time under their former employer’s health plan. You have 60 days to decide. Covers general last 18 months and may last longer under certain circumstances. COBRA coverage is by no means cheap. Keep that in mind.

Determine what skills you have that may transfer over into another industry. For instance, an administrator in a business office, can easily transfer into another industry. Call on connections you’ve made in the past. You may find that all the networking you did in your previous job, will help you find a new one. Connecting with other unemployed friends can help with support. You must maintain a positive outlook and attitude to be successful in your job search. Don’t let fear be your daily enemy. You have talent, you have skills, and you are needed.