Hi, I’ve thought about you a lot since I heard you lost your job, but hesitated to send advice, worried that I might come across as a know-it-all. And yet… having run Unemploymentville for over 5 years now, I do have some ideas that might help you. Know that these suggestions are my ‘two cents’, take them or leave them, and we’re still friends either way. First, about mindset: Some people are thinking it’s futile to look for a job…
Here are 3 simple steps I recommend if you’ve lost a job. Step 1) Write 3 to 5 Qualities Where You Shine (that have some value in workplace). Be honest with yourself. This is not a time to be modest. This isn’t a time to worry about what someone else will think if they see the list you make. There are some traits, some talents that you have that not everyone does. Write those down. My list: – Smart –…
If you are out-of-work, I recommend you find a ‘silver lining’ to your situation. In particular, find something you wouldn’t be able to do if you are working full-time. Make it as specific as possible and something that brings you Joy. Better still if it can also be something that brings you a sense of Pride. Here are some examples of silver linings: Notice that the examples on the right are all items that you can tell whether you have…
I’ve been unemployed a few times in my life and during those times, while I looked for a job, I still had to earn money. While unemployment benefits are available for those who qualify, in many circumstances, not even that can hold down the fort until a new job comes along. And if you don’t have access to unemployment benefits that can be an even scarier situation. As you find opportunities to make money while unemployed, you may discover that…
After nearly four years of full-time freelancing, I’ve learned a trick or two about how to keep my family fed without having a traditional, full-time job. In my humble opinion, there are really four main areas of concern when it comes to getting work as a freelancer: landing the work scheduling the work completing the work and finally, getting paid for the work. The last three areas are really not an issue if the first one’s not happening (i.e. landing…
Let’s face it, some advice really stinks! What’s the WORST advice you received on job loss or job hunting? I’m compiling a top 10 (or maybe I should call it bottom 10) list and so I’m asking for input. Entries selected will be paid $25 to be included in Escape from Unemploymentville book. But first let me answer the question myself. The WORST job loss/job hunting advice I received was… “Don’t feel bad.” This advice came from a few family…
What’s the best advice you received on job loss or job hunting? I’m compiling a top 10 list and so I’m asking for input. Entries selected will be paid $25 to be included in Escape from Unemploymentville book. But first let me answer the question myself. The best job loss/job hunting advice I received was… “Take a break. Don’t even think about a job or looking for one for at least 3 or 4 days.” These words of wisdom came…
Previously I disagreed with some common advice for people who have lost their job. I want to add another familiar piece of advice to the list that you should throw in the garbage. Do NOT follow the advice to ‘treat looking for a job as a full-time job.’ Here’s why: 1) Looking for a job is emotionally bruising. You give yourself a pep-talk, research a company or position, get psyched about getting the job so that you can convey genuine…
In, Emotional Stages of a Job Loss, the author suggests that similar to grief in a death, going through a job loss will put you through several emotional stages, namely: – Denial – Disbelief – Outward Anger – Inner Self-Criticism – Withdrawal – Reflection – Acceptance The author goes on to state, “By recognizing the different stages, you are able to move through them quickly, rather than languish in them for weeks.” No! no, no. Job loss and unemployment are…
1) Out with Bad Feelings If you hoped to get a job and you didn’t there are bound to be some bad feelings hanging out at your house, whether they are disappointment, anger, sadness or shock. You need to acknowledge those feelings and then use your favorite methods for chasing them away. Suggestions include: exercising venting to a friend screaming out loud (One person said she would drive all the way around the DC beltway screaming so as not to…