There's no doubt that becoming unemployed can be a devastating feeling; but by following a few simple steps, you'll make this temporarily difficult period a lot easier.

The first step: See if you're eligible for unemployment benefits, and if so, apply for them right away. In some states you can do this online.

2: UPDATE YOUR RESUME
After you've become unemployed, it's time to update your resume. Make sure all of your information is current and accurate, and make it as appealing to potential employers as possible. Tailor your resume to specific jobs you're applying for by using keywords from the job description.

3: MAKE A BUDGET
Unemployment is extremely tough on your finances, and you'll most likely need to trim back your expenditure as much as possible. Set aside some time to figure out your exact income, spending, and savings, and budget to be able to live within your means.

4: NETWORK
There's no need to isolate yourself once you've become unemployed. Stay in touch with colleagues, business contacts, friends, and family. Networking can be an effective way to advertise your availability. Let everyone know you're looking for a job.

5: TREAT YOUR JOB SEARCH AS A CAREER
While you now have some time to relax without eight hours of work taking up your day, don't put off beginning your job hunt. Create structure in your day by making your job search your new career. Treat it as seriously as a regular job, and schedule parts of your day for uninterrupted time to pursue this goal.

6: VOLUNTEER
Volunteering can be great fun and give you that warm fuzzy feeling that comes from helping others. It will also look good on your resume and be an appealing trait to discuss in interviews. It can even be an additional way to make new contacts for networking.

7: TAKE A CLASS
If you've always wanted to learn a new skill or stimulate your mind by furthering your education, make the most of your time while unemployed to do so. You'll feel as though you are doing something productive, and you may add to your marketable skills.

8: TAKE A TEMPORARY OR CONTRACT JOB
If it's taking some time for you to find a permanent full time job with benefits, you should consider the possibility of taking a temporary or contract job. Getting back to work will be great for your morale, will help you pad out your resume with relevant experience and will allow you to pay the bills.

9: COME UP WITH IDEAS
Being an ideas person is a definite plus in today's world. Many employers will value your profit-boosting, productivity-enhancing, and creative ideas. Even though you're unemployed, you should make it a priority to stay up to date with advances in your field and use your time to brainstorm ways you can increase your value as a potential employee.

10: RELAX
When you were employed, life was rather hectic -- what with commuting to work, meeting deadlines, juggling priorities, and trying to maintain a decent work-life balance. So now that you've suddenly got a whole lot more time on your hands, make the most of it. You still need to use a good portion of your time productively and kick your career search off right, but you may as well use this opportunity to relax and unwind too.

There's no need to leap out of bed at the crack of dawn; sleep in for a bit, and include time for recreational activities and hobbies you enjoy. You'll be refreshed when it comes time to get back to work.

11: GET HEALTHY
Have you been avoiding exercise and healthy eating with the excuse that there just are not enough hours in the day? Well, here's your chance. Not only will you feel a million times better if you head outside for some fresh air and exercise, but you'll also improve your overall health and general outlook on life.

12: STAY POSITIVE
It's undeniable that becoming unemployed is a definite downer; but do your best to stay positive and use your time productively. Realize that this is just a short period in your life, and make the most of this chance to reevaluate your goals, prepare yourself for your next career step, and become healthier and stronger both mentally and physically.


Source: http://www.chacha.com/gallery/4897/what-should-you-do-when-you-become-unemployed

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ishilove

Nice1!

This got me relieved.
Ops, thanks.