What to do if you get laid off
What to do if you get laid off
When you get laid off, it feels like the world is ending. Your mind races as you try to figure out what to do next. You may feel like you’re the only one who’s ever gone through this, but trust me, you’re not. Millions of people are laid off every year in the United States alone. The first thing you need to do is take a deep breath and relax.
If you get laid off, follow these 6 steps to keep yourself on track, and put your best foot forward in finding a new, and hopefully better job.
Don’t panic
If you’ve been laid off, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions, from shock and disbelief to anger and fear. You may be wondering how you’re going to pay your bills or support your family. It’s important to remember that this is just a setback, not a failure. There are plenty of people who have gone through the same thing and come out the other side.
The most important thing you can do right now is to stay positive and take action. Start by updating your resume and looking for job openings online. You can also reach out to your network of friends and family members to see if they know of any openings. And don’t forget to take care of yourself during this stressful time. Make sure to exercise, eat healthy meals, and get plenty of rest. With a positive attitude and a bit of effort, you’ll be back on your feet in no time.
File for unemployment benefits
If you’ve been laid off from your job, you may be wondering how to file for unemployment benefits. The first step is to contact your state’s unemployment office. You will need to provide some basic information, including your Social Security number and the dates of your employment. Once your claim has been approved, you will begin receiving payments. The amount of your payment will depend on your previous earnings and the number of dependents you have.
Reach out to your network of friends and family
Losing a job is always a difficult experience. But during these uncertain times, it can feel especially isolating and overwhelming. If you’ve recently been laid off, reach out to your network of friends and family for support. Talk about your feelings and frustrations. They may not be able to offer practical help, but they can provide an important listening ear and shoulder to cry on. It can also be helpful to connect with others who are in a similar situation. Sharing your experiences and hearing how others are dealing with unemployment can help you feel less alone and more hopeful that things will eventually improve. So don’t be afraid to reach out for help and support during this difficult time.
Update your resume and LinkedIn when you get laid off
When you get laid off, one of the first things you should do is update your resume. A recent study found that 70% of employers will only look at a resume for six seconds or less, so it’s important to make sure your resume is up-to-date and visually appealing. A well-written resume can help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of finding a new job
Here are a few tips on how to update your resume when you’re unemployed:
- Update your contact information, including your personal and not your work email
- Include your most recent job title and update your summary with all of your accomplishments. Make sure you use quantifiable metrics to show how you contributed to the company’s success.
- List any skills or experience that are relevant to the jobs you’re applying for.
- Remove any irrelevant information from your resume, such as old job titles or irrelevant coursework.
- Make sure your formatting is clean and easy to read. Use bullets points and clear headings to organize your information.
- Proofread your resume for spelling mistakes and grammar errors.
Any changes you make to your resume should also be reflected on your LinkedIn Profile. LinkedIn also has tons of tools job seekers can take advantage of, and there are many LinkedIn-specific tasks you should complete when you get laid off, like asking colleagues for recommendations.
Check out our Ultimate Guide to LinkedIn to make sure your profile is as great as it can be as you enter your new job search.
Sign up for job search websites and databases
So you’ve been laid off. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world. The first step is to not Panic. Breathe. You’re going to be okay. The second step is to start looking for new opportunities. A great way to do that is to sign up for job search websites and databases. This will help you to have access to a wider range of opportunities and also allow potential employers to find you more easily. It’s important to get your name out there, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Remember, you’re not alone in this and you’ll land on your feet in no time. Here are some sites to check out:
Attend virtual job fairs and networking events
Losing a job is always a difficult experience, but it can be especially hard to find new employment during uncertain economic times. However, there are still many opportunities out there for job seekers who are willing to look in the right place. One great resource is virtual job fairs. Many companies are now using video conferencing platforms to connect with potential employees, and these events can be a great way to learn about new opportunities. Additionally, networking events can also be a helpful way to connect with other professionals in your field. By attending these events and staying positive, you will eventually find the perfect job for you.
Consider freelance work or starting your own business
Many people have found themselves laid off from their jobs due to the pandemic. If you’re in this situation, you may be considering freelance work or starting your own business. Both of these options can be great ways to earn an income while having more flexibility and control over your work. When starting your own business, it’s important to research the market and make sure there is a demand for the product or service you’re offering. You’ll also need to create a business plan and build a strong online presence.
It can be a lot of work, but it can also be very rewarding. If you’re considering freelance work, there are a number of online platforms where you can find clients. Once you’ve built up a good reputation, you can start charging higher rates for your services. Whether you decide to freelance or start your own business, remember that it’s important to stay positive and believe in yourself. You can do this!
If you find yourself suddenly unemployed, don’t panic. There are many things you can do to improve your chances of finding new employment. The most important thing is to file for unemployment benefits and start looking for work right away. Utilize your network of friends and family, as well as job search websites and databases. Attend job fairs and networking events. If all else fails, consider freelance work or starting your own business. Whatever you do, don’t give up hope. Check out our How To Get The Job Master Course for more tips on landing the perfect job for you.
