Life After a Lay Off

The layoffs are around the corner and you are panicking. Then it hits you. Now what do you do? Do you sit down and start crying or get up and do something? Here is a short list of things to do once you get laid off:

1) Organize your life

You know who you are. You have been always the procrastinating type. Now is the time to get things back in order and clean up your act. Get all the junk in your apartment or home cleaned out, sell unwanted items and donate whatever cannot be sold. Get rid of all the clutter in your home office and scan all your important documents in the computer, index them. Get rid of all the mail you have collected over the years and scan whatever is needed, throw the rest or shred. Make a schedule for yourself and stick to it.

2) Network with people

This is kind of what everyone tells you. But the fact is , that this is really important if you want to land a job ever. More and more people are hiring based on referrals and it is important that people know who you are and what you are capable of. Look around your friend circle and network through them. You never know where an opportunity might come from.

3) Start a business online

This is easier said than done. However, there are plenty of opportunities out there if you look closely. Don't give up easily, there may be several failures before you know what you are good at. Besides , now you have all the time you need to try out a few things that you have been thinking of.

4) Acquire new skills

Skills need updating. It does not matter what field you were working in at your last job. Now is the time to diversify and pick up a few new skills. It could range from simply as brushing up your management skills through online tutorials or reading material to getting a certification in a highly specialized field.

5) Hit the gym and get back in shape

Getting back in shape requires dedication and time. Now you can exercise at will and you must. This is a great time to build some muscle and cut some fat. If nothing else, it will save you from doctor's visits in the future and save you a ton of money. Medical insurance Is hard to come by and this is the time to get stronger and healthier than you ever were.

6) Look for jobs where no one is looking

Scan the local newspapers and fliers in grocery stores, churches etc for odd jobs. A temporary job is better than no job at all. You will be surprised at how many people simply don't look at these message boards for jobs.

7) Do some freelance work or volunteer

Go to habitat for humanity to build homes or Junior Achievement to teach kids at your local schools. This is a great way to improve confidence and skills. I assure you that the time you put into these will pay may times over in your life. You will feel a sense of satisfaction besides earning some goodwill.