That’s exactly what I asked myself after being laid off. The fact that my last day of work was one week before my wedding made things even worse. What should I do? How will I obtain health insurance for my wife and me? How will I pay for my rent/mortgage? How will I put food on the table?
All these questions overwhelmed me that day I lost my job. How did I get back on my feet? What kept me motivated while I looked for work? What actions helped me land a new job? There are countless bits of advice out there that can guide a person searching for work. For me, the following actions were what made the most difference during such a difficult time, and now, a career and academic advisor for college students and alumni, this is the very same starting advice I give others.
Get Organized!
- Set aside time each morning to look over job ads in the paper or online. Update your resume and have it proofed by a friend (colleges usually offer resume proofing services to alumni).
- Maintain a folder with all information pertaining to your job search (it doesn’t have to be fancy, but you need records, especially if you are asked to provide the Unemployment Office with proof of your job search).
- Keep a record of the jobs you’ve applied for and the responses you’ve received. Develop a basic chart where you can record the positions applied for, the date application was sent, the prospective employer’s contact information, any employer responses to your applications, and any miscellaneous notes.
Act!
- Attempt to apply to between 2 and 5 jobs per week, minimum.
- Write a different cover letter for each job you apply to (reworking your cover letter for each job not only keeps you productive and motivated, it also helps your application stand out from the crowd).
- Adjust your resume to highlight appropriate experience for each job (help point out to the employer/hiring manager WHY you are the best candidate).
- Always send a thank you note (that thank you note may keep your application in the employer’s mind should any other position open).
Look in Unique Places!
- Look for job postings at area colleges and universities, which have become small towns, often with their own zip code. As with any town, they need administrators, maintenance staff, writers, drivers and other general staff help in addition to the professors.
- Look for freelance jobs. There are a number of sites that advertise freelance opportunities, which may lead to full time employment.
- Apply for jobs related to one of your hobbies. This may sound like a stretch, but your hobby experience might qualify you for a job you’ll truly enjoy.
- Network! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There is no shame in needing or asking for employment, and one of your friends or family members may know of job openings you are qualified for.
 Contributing Writer, Neil O’Donnell, has over 10 yrs. experience as an academic specialist and career advisor. He is offering to provide FREE feedback on resumes and cover letters for interested job seekers. Clients are assisted on a first come/first served basis. Contact Neil: cvguidance@gmail.com |
