What To Do After Getting Fired

Being fired from a job is an overwhelming situation financially and emotionally for most individuals. This is especially true if losing your job is unexpected or you are the sole wage earner for a family. Although it may take time, realizing the professional and personal growth opportunities that can result from being fired is essential in successfully managing a job loss.

Individuals who spend forty or more hours per week working and developing close relationships with their colleagues may find that their identity is strongly related to the work that they do. When a job loss is experienced a subsequent loss of identity may occur. Ensuring that you incorporate hobbies and other activities in your life will alleviate some of the loneliness and difficulties associated with a job loss. After being fired it is vital to promptly commence a job search but it is equally important to involve yourself in activities that can minimize the stress associated with being unemployed and searching for employment. Communicating with family and close friends can be beneficial during this time as they provide crucial support in navigating a period of unemployment. Additionally, enlisting outside support groups designed for the unemployed and their families provides a safe environment to discuss concerns related to losing a job and strategies for surviving and thriving during this period.

A small percentage of individuals are capable of preparing for an imminent job loss, however the large majority are not expecting to be fired. Ideally, individuals and their families are financially secure and have built emergency saving funds to protect themselves in such situations. There are many families though living paycheck to paycheck and a job loss results in serious financial difficulties. Ensuring that you continuously update your resume and maintain a network of professional contacts will be helpful when you find yourself looking for a new job. It is important to recognize that your career does not define who you are and obtaining any type of employment is beneficial to the well-being of yourself and family. Continuing a job search while employed in a less desirable occupation is a viable option and recommended when receiving any income is necessary.

Optimal physical and psychological health allows an individual to commence a job search under the best circumstances. Eating well, incorporating exercise, and involving family with your present concerns are all valuable contributions during this period. Spouses and children need to feel as though they are making a team effort with the individual who has been fired to find employment prospects and reduce expenses at home. Avoiding isolation and building a support network of family and friends can be a tremendous help when unemployed.

Keeping to a schedule while job searching allows time for fun combined with serious efforts looking for new employment. It is acceptable to take some time to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and evaluate what type of position you are most suited for. Following this it is vital that previous and current references are contacted to assist with the job search. If you have been the sole wage earner for a household now is the time to ascertain which expenses are necessary and what can be cut from the budget. In situations where creating an emergency fund has not been possible it is now vital to save in any area that is not a necessity.