Recession tips: What to do if you have been laid-off or lost your job during the current recession:
Do not burn your bridges: Understand that lay offs are not personal, and this is particularly the case in the current recession. It is more about business survival. During economic downturns, such as the ongoing recession, many businesses, large or small, are forced to terminate some of the employees to reduce the costs. Keep in mind that you will need your employer in the future for job reference or letters of recommendation. Thus, leave in a professional manner and keep in touch with your co-workers and bosses.
Talk to your family: Undoubtedly, job loss creates financial burden, stress, and pressure for you and your family. That said, it is easier to carry the burden together than alone. Tell them immediately the way things are. Given the recession coverage, almost everyone knows about the current conditions. Keep it in a simple and optimistic way, but at the same time, take actions toward savings and reducing costs. See the following link for further tips on reducing costs.
Apply for unemployment benefits: Apply for unemployment benefits right away even if you believe that you will be able to find a job relatively soon. For more information on the basics of unemployment benefits and how to apply, see “Unemployment benefits”
Know your options: Understanding your options during the current recession, in case you will not be able to find a job for the next 3 to 6 months, is very important. Know how much you have in the bank and estimate how long that will sustain you and your family. Ask yourself what options you have. Depending on your financial situation and financial responsibilities, a whole slew of options may be available to you, from immediately looking for full-time positions, to looking for temporary positions, to starting your own business, to going back to school, to moving to another location, etc.
Job search: Given the ongoing recession, it's important that you have several versions of your resume. Start applying for jobs using different tools and application processes such as the Internet, newspapers, and your friends and networks. See, “Job search” for more information.
Apply for independent health insurance: Determine how long your health care coverage will last and consider independent health insurance coverages. Remember that cutting cost during economic downturn is the way to go, but never save on your or your family's health. Not having insurance may end up costing you significantly more. There are many affordable insurance coverages for unemployed individuals.
Do not be apologetic about gap in your resume: If you have been laid off for awhile and cannot find a job, do not worry about the gap in your resume in this environment. Many good and talented employees have lost their jobs in the past year and the trend is likely to continue at least through 2009. Employers are very much aware of the current conditions and most likely will not hold it against you.
Do not neglect yourself: Anxiety and economic hardship can easily take a toll on anyone. And this is particularly the case in the current recession. Do what you need to do in order to be healthy and productive and save money in other areas of life.
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