8 Survival Tips For The Laid Off And Looking

It can be difficult to stay focused, positive, and proactive when you are laid off, but that is exactly what you need to be if you want to get a job! If you’re laid off and looking, check out these eight simple tips to get you out of the house and back to work.

Everyday Activities

Do the following activities everyday.

1. GET DRESSED.

It may not seem important, but it is. Changing your clothes can change your mindset. Just as it is important to have a designated area to “work” on your job search, you should have a job search wardrobe. You never know when you might interact with someone who might have an opportunity or interview for you. Put your best foot forward at all times.

2. LEAVE THE HOUSE EVERYDAY.

This will increase your chances of meeting others with job opportunities, or even interview opportunities. Even beyond the simple act of reminding people you exist by presenting yourself in public, you get human acknowledgement. Sitting at home, alone, in front of a computer can result in feeling like you don’t exist after a while. Making eye contact with others and receiving acknowledgement can really improve your self-esteem and spirits.

3. READ SOMETHING CAREER OR INDUSTRY RELATED EVERYDAY.

Feed your mind! Keep abreast with your industry so you have something to talk (and even think) about. Staying current can help you feel connected to the rest of the working world and will support your self-esteem. Reading job search and career-related articles can also give you some tips and tricks from which you might benefit. These tips can also be reassuring that you are doing everything you need to do and are doing it well.

4. VARY YOUR APPROACH TO JOB SEARCH.

Not only is sitting in front of the computer applying for jobs day after day boring, but it is also likely ineffective! You will rarely get a response, and if you do, it is often a rejection letter. Follow up on your applications and resume submissions; research and cold call employers with whom you are interested in working; attend in-person networking opportunities; review an actual newspaper for job leads to expand your targets; find a staffing agency or recruiter to work with and follow-up with them regularly. Changing up your job search will keep you engaged, fresh, and motivated.

Weekly Activities

Do the following activities on a weekly basis.

5. PRACTICE INTERVIEWING… NOW.

I am always so surprised when a new client contacts me to practice for an interview a day or two before the main event. Ideally, you should practice with a career coach or other professional several times before you are even called for an interview. Review and refine your answers weekly and schedule one or more sessions to polish your presentation for the specific job when you are called for an interview. This way, you will be ready to “knock ‘em dead!”

6. KEEP A SCHEDULE.

Paper or electronic – it doesn’t matter. Map out your week ahead and review your schedule weekly. This will ensure you don’t miss any application deadlines or opportunities to follow up or network. You also won’t forget to keep your word to call an employer back “next Tuesday.” Job search is your business right now… unless you want to continue being laid off and looking….

7. REVIEW YOUR RESUME, LINKEDIN PROFILE, WEBSITE, AND COVER LETTER.

These should all be considered living documents and regularly reviewed and enhanced. Even small improvements or corrections can make a surprising difference. Additionally, it is easy to overlook things you take for granted like the same link that has been on your profile for ages, but you may find has mysteriously been broken since you last used it. Try to use an objective eye. If it has been a while since you have had your biographical information reviewed, spring for a professional to review it all for you.

8. VOLUNTEER.

You may not think you have time for it, but you do. Not only will the organization or individual receiving your time and efforts appreciate it, but you will benefit as well. There is no way for me to describe how good it can make you feel to be able to contribute your time and energy a few hours a week to a good cause. It is good for your self-confidence, builds feelings of relevance, and can be another networking opportunity as well. You just never know who will lead you to your next awesome break! While this is no means a comprehensive list of things that you can do if you are laid off and looking, it is a good start. Careerealism