|
Q: I just
lost my job. What
should I do first?
- Samantha in Fishkill, MT
|
Advertisement
|
A: Thanks for
your question, Samantha.
You didn't mention what kind of work you do, but there is something I
encourage everybody who's lost a long-time job to do:
Mourn.
|
That's right: mourn. A large part of any adult's
identity revolves around their career. Most of us spend more time with our
co-workers than with our families.
When you lose something so close, it hurts. It's very much like losing a
loved one. You need to allow yourself the time to come to grips with it
before you can move on.
Coincidentally, most states won't give you an Unemployment Insurance check
for the first week, which makes it the best time to grieve your loss. Feel
bitter, cry, curse, get angry and come to grips with the fact that you
won't be walking through those same doors again.
Your second week, sign up with at least one head hunter and/or employment
agency per day. This will increase the number of people looking for work
for you. This is also the first week you'll get your UI check.
On the third week, begin your networking in earnest.
Remember, Samantha, that this is something most of
us go through during our lives, just as death is. Mourn both. Give yourself
the chance to achieve closure before moving on.
IN THE CARAVAN: Use
your first week of unemployment to mourn your job loss.
|
|
bSafari.c
The Lion’s Pride: Q & A
