Find a Job You Really Want In
Experiencing job loss can be both sudden and emotionally challenging. Feelings of anger, sadness, and anxiety are common reactions during this tumultuous time.
In addition to grappling with these emotions, you must address critical practical concerns—like managing your finances and securing a new job swiftly.
This comprehensive checklist will ensure you claim all the benefits you’re entitled to while positioning yourself for a successful job search.
File For Unemployment Benefits
Unemployment benefits are retroactive, meaning they will start from the date you file, not when you lost your job. Therefore, it’s crucial to file as soon as possible.
The application process, eligibility criteria, and benefit amounts vary by state. Generally, if you were laid off through no fault of your own, you should qualify for assistance.
Confirm Your Last Paycheck (And The Amount It Should Be For)
In several states, employers are required to provide your final paycheck immediately. In other states, you may need to wait until the next scheduled pay date.
Your final paycheck might also include payment for unused PTO, sick leave, or other accrued benefits. Contact HR to clarify what you are owed and the timeline for receiving it.
Review Health Insurance Options
For many American workers, healthcare is tied to employment. Losing your job means you need to explore new healthcare options.
Under the COBRA Act, you can maintain your employer’s health insurance by paying the full premium for a limited time.
However, since you’ll be covering the entire cost, COBRA can be costly. Consider comparing prices with plans available on the Affordable Care Act marketplace.
Budgeting
The average job search now takes about 9 weeks, with some searches extending even longer. Since your unemployment benefits will typically be less than your regular paycheck (often under half), creating a budget is essential.
Your budgeting strategy should reflect your savings and necessary expenses. Whenever possible, avoid cashing out your 401(k) or depleting your savings; instead, focus on reducing your expenditures.
Take Some Time
It’s perfectly acceptable to take a few days to process your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, there’s no need to rush into job applications.
Prioritize your mental well-being. Reach out to friends and family for support and take time for activities you enjoy, whether that’s gaming, reading, or other hobbies that help you recharge for the job hunt.
Check Out Your Online Presence
Search for your name online and review the results. If you find anything you’d prefer potential employers not see, now is the time to address it.
As you begin your job search, prospective employers are likely to research you online, including on social media. Use this opportunity to clean up your online presence and adjust your privacy settings on social platforms.
Network
Losing your job can feel like an embarrassing secret, leading many to search for new opportunities quietly. However, it’s important to remember that job loss is a common experience.
Most professionals will face layoffs at some point in their careers. To help you find a new position, leverage LinkedIn, your professional networks, and personal relationships. Let your connections know you’re looking for job openings.
Get Your References Ready
As you reach out to your network, think about who can provide a strong reference for you. If you’re feeling uncertain, check out this guide on how to ask for a reference.
Consider asking your former employer for a reference, especially if your layoff was unrelated to your job performance. Also, confirm what the company plans to communicate to future employers about your time there; some may only verify employment dates, while others may provide more detailed information.
Update Your Resume
Before diving into your job search, take the time to update your resume. Include the skills you acquired at your last job and highlight any significant projects or achievements.
If you are considering a career shift, craft a compelling resume objective and clearly articulate your motivations in your cover letter.
Start Your Job Search
Once you’ve completed the necessary paperwork and laid the groundwork for your job search, it’s time to start applying for new opportunities.
Continue to explore Zippia for resources that can assist you throughout your job search—whether you need advice on explaining your job loss or tips for negotiating your salary at your next position.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
