The COVID-19 pandemic is no longer just a health crisis. It has also turned into an economic crisis. Millions of people lost their jobs. If you are one of those people, what to do when you lose your job?
1. Feel Sad, then Move On
When something bad happens, it is okay to not be okay. Sadness is a part of life. You can even cry your heart out. In fact, people who cry a lot are mentally strong. Acknowledge what you are feeling, it is the only way to move on. However, do bear in mind that this should be done on a temporary basis only. Doing this for many months or years is a definite no, no.
2. Process Your Unemployment Claims and Benefits
Whatever the reason is for losing your job, process the unemployment claims and benefits that go with the separation. File for unemployment in your government. Get all the monetary compensation that you are entitled to from both your previous employer and the government. Any financial benefits will help you in the coming months until you settle on a new job.
3. Create a New Budget
One of the biggest consequences in losing your job will be in the decrease in your monthly income. Thus, it is imperative to create a new budget especially if you are the head of the family. A good budgeting technique is the money jar budgeting system. There might be a need to cut down on your expenses. If you have enough passive income or savings to last, then it wont’t be a problem. If not, you need to ensure that you have enough money to pay your bills until you get a new job. Also, watch out for money leaks.
4. Redesign Your Life Through A Bucket List
Now that you have closed one chapter of your life, this is the best time to redesign your life through a bucket list. It is time to create new goals. What are your plans 5 to 10 years from now? How do you see yourself in the future? If you are not happy with your previous profession for a long time, maybe now is the time to follow your passion. Try exploring a new career. Unleash the genius within you.
5. Update Your Resume and Clean Your Social Media
Once you have figured out where you want to go from here, it is now time to update your resume and your LinkedIn Account. If you don’t have one, it is time to create one. While you are on it, this is also the perfect time to clean your social media account. Let’s face it, we now live in a highly technological world. Future employers are bound to check your social media accounts to find out more about you. Remove all negative posts or remarks you have made. Your goal is to make a good impression.
6. Reconnect with Your Network
Look for people whom you can use as reference in your job applications. You may need to contact your previous employer to get a good recommendation. It also helps to reconnect with family, friends or alumni who belong to the same industry. They may be able to help you in your job search.
7. Apply, Apply and Apply
Don’t just apply in one company. Apply in as many as you can. The more applications you submit, the better your chance of being accepted in at least one of them. After all, unlike before where you have to mail or physically go to a company to apply; nowadays, you can just apply through a click of a mouse. Remember to include a targeted cover letter in your application.
8. Invest in Your Personal Development
While waiting for responses, it is best to use your time learning new skills. For example, being computer literate is already a prerequisite skill nowadays since most companies have already adapted or in the process of integrating computerized technology in their systems. Having decent computer skills can help you in your job search. Another skill that can come in handy is knowing a second or third language. You don’t even need to leave your house to study. There are many schools online. In fact, you don’t even need to pay. There is a lot of online content that can be useful to you.
Good luck!
Feature Photo by Anna Tarazevich from Pexels