Surviving Sudden Unemployment

By Rita Hess

Few people lose their job unexpectedly. It's true! If a worker is fired for performance problems, they usually receive a verbal or written warning from supervisors beforehand, or they know they are not accomplishing everything they should be. Similarly, If a company goes out of business or lays off employees, there are usually symptoms of trouble before it happens. Perhaps new projects are postponed indefinitely or financial goals aren't being met. More often than not, even if the information isn't made public, rumors run rampant among workers long before the doors close or people actually lose their jobs.

Should you be concerned? Only you know the answer to that. In today's economic climate, however, make every attempt to become a valued employee. If you have "slack time" or worry that somebody else could easily perform your tasks for less money, offer to take on more responsibility or volunteer to help in departments that are behind. Never allow yourself to think that you are indispensable! Begin curtailing your personal spending if you are even remotely uneasy about your future, and keep your resume updated regardless of whether your employer is on stable financial ground or not.

If, despite your efforts, you learn that you will become unemployed and you are not a United States citizen, your first responsibility is to find out how losing your job will effect your visa status. After determining whether you can remain in America, expect to experience a wide range of emotions and a variety of changes in your life. Friends may shift their attitude toward you, particularly if they are ex-colleagues. They may not return your phone calls, or may choose to no longer socialize with you. For this reason, it is wise to establish and maintain a circle of friends outside of the workplace with whom you enjoy spending time so that you are not left feeling lonely. This group of acquaintances may later be able to help you find a new job!

When you learn of your imminent unemployment, ask for a letter of recommendation from a supervisor or member of the HR staff. If the company ceases operation entirely, you may need the reference and it could become hard to find people!

How long you remain unemployed depends – for the most part – on you. As recently as February, 2001, the () Bureau of Labor Statistics (http://stats.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.t06.htm) found that 42.3 percent of unemployed workers found new jobs within five weeks. Squelch unnecessary expenditures immediately, and do not rely on credit cards, retirement accounts, or 401k funds for income unless you have no other options. Even people with healthy savings accounts find that the money dries up quickly when all of it is going out and none is coming in.

While working, you probably cherished your weekends and wished for more time off. Now that you have it, do not fall into the trap of sleeping late and watching daytime television rather than searching for a new job. It can become a hard cycle to break and leads to other unhealthy habits like overeating and alcohol or drug abuse. Besides, the longer you remain secluded inside your home, the harder it will be to muster up the confidence you'll need to land a new job!

Be honest with yourself about the reason(s) why you were terminated and do not feel sorry for yourself. Otherwise, you will subconsciously carry your pitiful attitude into job interviews with prospective employers. Instead, recognize that your emotions, frustrations, and disappointments about being laid off are normal, and view your situation as an opportunity to change professions and do something you otherwise might not have tried. Figure out what you want in a new job, make sure your skills and qualifications are a good fit, and start looking for that dream position! If you aren't sure what type of job you would enjoy, work with a career counselor who can perform skills assessment tests to find out where your interests are strongest.

What is the best way for suddenly unemployed workers to find new jobs? Do not limit your search to the classified advertisements in Sunday's newspaper. Network with former colleagues and coworkers if possible, continue to remain active in professional organizations, and leave your mind open for all opportunities. Don't hesitate to take a job that you believe is beneath your skill level, especially when finances are tight. What else helps?

• Consider accepting a temporary position, particularly if it might lead to a permanent placement. At the very least, you may develop some new contacts!
• Taking a night job supplements your dwindling savings account and keeps your daylight hours free for distributing resumes and attending job interviews.
• Consider "finding a job" your new job! If you previously worked eight hours per day, set aside eight hours each day hunting for a new position. If you have Internet access at home, job-hunt online nights and weekends.

Once you start interviewing, remember to throw out the "poor me" attitude that you may experience after being laid off. Never express to a potential employer that your previous boss or coworkers are responsible for your situation, and never attribute your unfortunate circumstances to your minority status.

Make sure your skills fit the position you are applying for and that your resume is current and neatly prepared. Answer interview questions honestly using excellent English skills and an enthusiastic attitude.

Sudden unemployment is an unnerving, scary situation that I hope you never have to experience. If you do find yourself in the predicament, use these tips to help you cope with the transition into a new – and hopefully better – beginning.