The initial shock has passed, you have found a zen like calm, and now you are ready to move on. Brace yourself. The average job search is running at all time highs of six and a half months. The job pool is loaded causing downward pressure on the unemployed as the few employers, who are hiring, are holding all of the cards. Now is the time to break out the job search arsenal and prepare an attack.
Remember to continue with your exercise plan and reading to stay energized and mentally fit. If cash flow problems start to pop up during the waiting period of severance or unemployment, then consult the personal finance resources mentioned in the 10 steps.
During the months and years of being “on the job” also translated into making contacts both within and outside of your previous employer. Write every name and contact information down in a list if you have not kept up with this information in the past. After you have the work contacts, write down every non-work contact. Next, categorize the list by a contact method such as phone call, e-mail, etc. Now work your network by reaching out to explain how much of an influence each person has had on your career or life, thanking them for this role, and asking for suggestions, guidance, and leads to assist in the transition. Do not procrastinate because of embarrassment or unwillingness to broach the subject. Call or e-mail now. Really.
| Redux Action Plan |
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• Exercise |
Socialites of the past probably conjure a stuffy, heir apparent image. No longer, they are the masses that are finding a purpose and honing their voice through different media outlets. Are you a disbeliever? Go do a Google name search, after all potential employers will be. Odds are the search will return more information than expected. Start controlling that information through the use of the big three: Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Fortunately, the hardest part of using these social platforms is just getting started. Go now and sign up for an account, seek out others, and try to mimic their success. Be sure to observe others while creating your unique “voice” and then start expanding your network.
- Facebook Tutorial
- Twitter Tutorial
- LinkedIn Guidelines
Take this opportunity to push yourself professional and personally. This might include signing up for continuing education courses either online or at a local community college. Also consider volunteering for a local non-profit which will offer perspective on your current situation. Finally, consider joining Toastmasters or a local comedic improvisational troupe to sharpen your public speaking skills.
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