Unemployment often means more than losing your job. You may experience emotional and financial stress as a result of it. Worse, unemployment may influence relationships with family and friends. The longer unemployment lasts, the greater the stress may become.
- DON'T BLAME YOURSELF.
Losing a job is like any other loss. You may feel responsible even though the closing, layoff, or separation was not your fault.
- ADJUST YOUR LIFE STYLE.
You may have to live on a reduced income for a while. Decide, with your family, what adjustments need to be made.
- TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY.
Regular sleep, meals and exercise are very important.
- COMMUNICATE.
Discuss the situation. You don't have to carry the burden alone. Your family and friends are your support system.
- CREATE A SCHEDULE.
Organize your day around the work of finding a job, but set limits. Evenings and weekends should be for relaxation and recreation.
- START YOUR NEW JOB.
Looking for a job is a full-time job and the most important thing you can do right now. You are most attractive to other employers when you are first laid off.
| The best way to cope with unemployment is to succeed in finding another job as quickly as possible. |
- assumes that no one else can find a job for him because no one else can know exactly what he needs, wants, or likes. No one else knows exactly what he can do.
- realizes that outcome depends on input and is willing to conduct a full-time (35 hours a week) job search to produce job opportunities quickly.
- understands that to sell himself, he must know his product and convince others of his value. He knows what he can do, where he is needed, and exactly what he wants.
- knows that there are many routes to the same destination and develops a personal road map. He is prepared for detours...and shortcuts.
- exercises good judgement in every job hunting situation. He believes any time, whether perceived as good or bad, is an opportunity on which to capitalize.
- avoids paralyzing "what ifs." He keeps his eye on his goals and sees setbacks as temporary. Most important, he keeps moving forward.
- believes in himself and doesn't see employment turndowns as personal rejections.
- deals with reality. His choices and expectations reflect the economic conditions and job market in which he operates.
- involves his family and friends. He allows others to help him/her by considering job leads and accepting encouragement from others.
- maintains a good sense of humor.
It's important to begin your job search on the right note...by developing A POSITIVE ATTITUDE!
| Helpful Hints |
| Take time |
PREPARE |
| Give time |
EVERYDAY |
| Show Initiative |
VISIT EMPLOYERS |
| Persevere |
CALL THEM BACK |
| Network |
REACH EVERYONE |
| Look good |
YOU'LL FEEL BETTER |
| Say "Thanks" |
WRITTEN AND VERBALLY |
| Convince |
YOURSELF AND EMPLOYERS |
Additional Resources Links:
NOTE: Alternate formats of this document available by contacting your local GDOL Career Center.
"Your
attitude is your most priceless possession."
KEITH HARRELL
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Some information in this book is based on concepts or materials developed
by JIST Works, Inc., Indianapolis, IN. They have been used with permission
but are protected by copyright law and cannot be reproduced without permission. |
