Being unemployed is a phase of life where one can succumb to a lot of negativity and suffer from low morale. This fact is more evident during long-term unemployment, specially when you’re the breadwinner and there are no financial resources available as a backup. You’re doing all that you can to look up for jobs, but not finding any. During such a phase, you must pause from the routine, introspect, make changes in your job search strategy and realign.
We’ve compiled a list of 5 boosters that will help you in redefining your job search strategy. Here they are-
1) Apply for Unemployment Insurance
Provides you immediate financial relief in the form of weekly monetary payments from the government. All states provide up to 26 weeks of unemployment compensation for those who lost their jobs due involuntary reasons such as layoffs. The applicant should be actively looking for jobs and must be able and available to accept a suitable job offer.
The Dole as it is popularly known may not match the standards of the wages you drew, but should be sufficient to cover the basic day to day expenses. Do apply for it as soon as you’re unemployed to ensure continuity in income.
2) Take Up a Part Time/Freelance Job
Along with the unemployment compensation, your source of income can be a part time job. Assuming you will have plenty of time in a typical day, signing up for a part-time/freelance job not only helps you with monetary backing but will also keep you occupied.
The most reliable medium to look up for small time jobs will be on the internet. Register and update your Resume on various job portals and make periodic contacts. You can also scout for opportunities in local communities or by registering for relevant services provided by the labor department in your state.
3) Don’t Heed to Negative Emotions
Being jobless is a phase of life that can give rise to a lot of gloomy emotions which in turn can hurt your mental well being. It’s paramount to stay strong and not give up to negative emotions. Treat it like a passing phase of your life and understand the fact that there are thousands of unemployed people just like you, working hard to make it happen.
Control your personal expenses and don’t succumb to addictions such as drinking and drugs. Jobless days are one of the most susceptible phases to give in to addictions. As much as it important to control yourself, its equally vital to take care of your family.
4) Refocus & Relay Job Search Strategy
Draw a list of activities you’re currently following to look up for jobs, write them down and analyze. Some of your mediums may not be productive. Eliminate such instances. Being self-motivated and strategic thinking can do the job.
Chalk out a brand new strategy and start fresh. Sources such as job portals are more yielding that applying manually with companies. Watch out for job fairs in your area where employers come together under one umbrella. Participation in these events can be highly fruitful.
5) Network & Explore Other Mediums
Build new networks and re-establish old ones. Your next job contract may come by means of an old colleague or a friend referring your profile. Participate in forums and discussions, both online and offline.
This is also the right time to explore other avenues. If a certain skill outside your background interests you, try exploring it. If this dream requires additional training/course, sign up for it. It is never late to make a career change, you must be open and willing to explore latest trends.