Job Loss? 4 Things To Do Immediately

Job loss is never a great situation, especially now. While the new year is a time of hope, your company may have downsized, completed a merger, or your skills may not be needed anymore. Whatever the reason, getting handed a pink slip isn’t ideal — and it can be confusing time.

Assuming your employer has given you ample notification, it’s time to act fast. The winter job search waits for no one, so put down that ice cream and turn off that sad music. You’ve got a job to find!

Here are four things to do immediately to get your job search started:

Secure a recommendation from your employer

Whether or not you knew job loss was coming, it’s important to not burn your bridges with your employer. Most firings aren’t personal, merely a business decision. So, when you learn you’re being let go, do your best to secure a recommendation from your employer. These recommendations can be a powerful part of your job search, especially since they can help to explain why you were let go.

For instance, you could say something like this to your employer: “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work here. I’ve really enjoyed my time and will miss the office. While I understand why I had to be let go, I was hoping to secure a recommendation or a referral to another job opening. This will immensely help in my job search, particularly coming from a knowledgeable leader.”

Network now

One of the top ways to find a job is through networking. Go to professional development events, meet with thought leaders, or attend industry conferences. Networking allows you to find those hidden opportunities and meet the influencers who can make things happen for you.

When you go to a networking event, you need to be prepared. Your elevator pitch should be sharp. Your resume and cover letter must be polished. Your business cards should be ready. Beyond that though, what you do after — such as connecting and following up — are just as important. Be the person that stands out!

Amp up your social presence

It’s no surprise that social networking can be the ticket to finding a great job. After all, most employers use social media in their hiring strategies. Therefore, if you’re fired from your job, it’s vital to amp up your social presence in order to stand out to employers who are already on the lookout.

There are several ways to do this. For instance, updating your LinkedIn profile with a summary explaining why you’re on the job search is a good first step. Following companies you’re interested in on Facebook or Twitter — and communicating with these organizations — is also advised. Don’t forget to post industry relevant content — as well as your opinion about that content — as well. This shows your knowledgeable about your space, making you more attractive to employers.

Use online resources

Online resources like CareerShift are vital when you lose your job unexpectedly. These tools exist to help you find awesome opportunities, manage your job search, and create personal marketing campaigns to illustrate why you’re a great candidate.

How can you tell which online resource is for you? Start by evaluating your goals. For instance, are you looking for a job in the same industry or would you like to expand your search? Are you searching for a tool that can help you to find contact information? How about one organizing for your search? Understanding what you want from an online tool can help you to choose the right one.

While job loss can seem like a terrible experience, moving forward quickly helps you to get out of those doldrums and into your next opportunity. Use these tips to ensure you’re doing so effectively.

What do you think about job loss? What are some other things to do immediately if you lose your job?

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