What should you do when you’re laid off?
It’s tempting to say good riddance to the company that caused you heartache.
However, It’s better to leave without issues that could distract you from your future job hunt.
When you’re unexpectedly laid off from work, start with this list.
Ask About Your Last Pay and Other Benefits
Ask about your last paycheck before you leave.
Try using a final pay calculator likeOnPayto get an idea.
If you’re part of a mass layoff, check theWorker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act.
you’re free to check the law online to know your rights as an employee.
Your company policy might also have provisions that pay you for any unused vacation or sick time.
If traces of your personal life are on your work computer, back them up and delete them.
see to it to return laptops, mobile phones, and other work tools in good condition.
If your projects or output are on your work computer, download them for your portfolio.
You could use them as work samples when you start job searching.
There’s no better time than now to learndesign tips to make your portfolio look amazing.
Ask for a Good Reference
Your former employer can be your ticket to a new job.
A good reference will come in handy when applying to another company.
Keep copies of your performance reviews, and request them if you don’t have one.
Good performance reviews can remind you of your abilities when you feel discouraged.
If you received outstanding feedback, use that information to stand out in your next job interview.
Give Yourself Time
Getting laid off isn’t an easy experience to swallow.
Some even experience anxiety and depression.
When this happens, remember that you’re not alone and help is always available.
It would help if you gave yourself time to grieve and process what happened.
Enjoy the downtime and consider this as an opportunity for an extended vacation.
Connect with friends, and try picking up a new hobby.Eventbritelets you search for events near you.
you’re able to join parties, cultural shows, concerts, and training online or in person.
Steer clear of social media if it only worsens your negative emotions.
Other apps could help you in this difficult time.
Download:Headspace foriOS|Android(Subscription required, free trial available)
5.
Organize Your Finances
How many months can your savings, investments, and last pay sustain you?
Take an inventory of your financial state, so you know how to plan for future expenses.
you could use thesefree and customizable finance templates to set a budget and save money.
You should have set aside an emergency fund of at least three months.
Hopefully, your job search won’t take much time.
But if it does, try usingapps that will help you find a side job instantly.
you might still earn on the side while waiting for your big break.
Apply for Unemployment Benefits
see if you qualify for unemployment benefits.
These benefits provide temporary financial support while you search for a new job.
Visit theUS Department of Laborwebsite to see the contact details of state unemployment insurance offices.
The Marketplace lets you choose from different private health insurance companies.
If you want to enroll in a Marketplace plan, do it within 60 days of losing your job.
you’re able to enjoy coverage for the rest of the year if you qualify.
Talk to your former employer about this option.
If available, you will have to pay the insurance premium with additional administrative fees.
you might also consider getting a short-term health insurance plan.
Short-term insurance may not have complete health coverage, but it’s better than not having any.
To compare insurance providers, use a site likeeHealth.
LinkedIn connects you with millions of professionals, including recruiters, career coaches, and CEOs.
A simple post with an authentic message can lead to unexpected connections and job offers.
LinkedIn also has different tools to help you get job leads:
9.
Improve Job Skills
Losing your job doesn’t mean that you’ve got the option to’t be productive.
Aside from taking copious amounts of rest, use your time to learn.
Add learning activities to your schedule.
Many online classes only take a few weeks, and some are free!
The options for learning in the online space are endless.
Use Coursera, Udemy, edX, and other learning platforms to your advantage.
There arethings you don’t need to include in your resume.
Use a simple template, and choose words highlighting your skills in the bullet points.
A Lay-Off Can Lead to Your Best Job Ever
Getting laid off is not easy.
“What am I going to do now?”
is a common question.
you’ve got the option to start with these tips as you begin a new chapter.
And while unexpected, they’re not the end of your career.
You should also explore other career paths if you recently got laid off.
Take the time to consider all your options before committing to another job.
If you think about it, getting laid off might lead to an opportunity for your best job yet.
