5 Tips for Moving Ahead After Losing Your Job

Dealing with the loss of a job can be a bit of an ego buster and a humbling ordeal. One minute you’re on top of the world and the next it seems as if the rug was pulled out from under you. Here are five tips to help you navigate this transition more smoothly and with less stress.

Grieve a little, then get over it.

Losing a job can release a broad spectrum of emotions. You may even find yourself on a rollercoaster of feelings as you process the end of this career chapter. It is normal to experience anger, frustration, fear, and even elation. What you are experiencing is grief. It is important that you recognize and address your feelings so that you can begin moving toward managing your situation from a more cognitive stance.

Tighten your belt.

Layoffs come with a lot of unknowns, and unknowns are scary. How long will it take to find another job? Will I have to relocate? What will I do if I run into a financial emergency? These questions can only be answered in time. In the meantime, there is something you can do to help weather the storm. Fight the unknowns with the known by creating a realistic budget and adhering to it.

Even if you already have a household budget it is a good idea to revisit it and make necessary adjustments. Obviously, this is a good time to trim meals, entertainment, etc. Also keep in mind that some expenses may increase. For example, you may have additional travel expenses while interviewing, or continuing education expenses.

Hone your skills.

Take inventory of your professional skills along with skills an employer will find desirable. Identify any gaps and fill them in. Will you benefit from acquiring new professional certifications? Should you take a writing class? Are there any seminars that will be helpful? The most important thing is that you take a critical look at your skills and what you need to improve.

Talk, talk.

Often people feel embarrassed to talk about losing a job. This is understandable, but it isn’t advisable to keep quiet. You should tell everyone you know that you are looking for employment. How can anyone help you if they don’t know you need help?

Treat unemployment like a job.

While you are in your brief grieving period it may be a good time to take a little vacation. After that the vacation is over and it is time to get to work. Make it your job to find a job. Scheduling and planning your activities will not only make you a more efficient hunter, staying on a routine provides a sense of accomplishment and stability.

Danielle Foppe is a Recruitment Manager at Business Centric Technology. If you are interested in learning more about how to get the best IT talent in the Dallas metroplex, contact Danielle specializes in recruiting IT talent in Dallas, Ft. Worth and North Texas. If you are looking for a rewarding career contact us us today.