10 Tips: When You Lose Your Job

1. Learn all you can about the work force adjustment process. It’s important to understand and to think about your options and your rights.
2. Establish a new daily routine. A new type of work day and new goals for yourself.
3. Look into your resources. Cut expenses if necessary. Check into your benefits (e.g. health insurance). Investigate alternatives.
4. Seek the emotional support you need — from family, friends, counsellors, psychologists, and other professionals.
5. Look after your health. Find out how to deal with stress. Continue exercising and socializing. Try not to overeat or under eat. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption.
6. Continue or start networking. Start talking to people. Let your contacts know that you are looking for work.
7. Don’t be ashamed you are out of work. Don’t blame yourself (often these things are outside our control).
8. Learn to deal with change. If you can’t find a job similar to the one you had, look for new ones for which you are qualified. If necessary, seek some training, go back to school, consider relocating...
9. Be good to yourself. Once you have taken a bit of time to get over the shock of loosing you job, pick yourself up and dust yourself off. Don’t isolate yourself.
10. Keep your sense of humour. It’s tough but try to remain positive in the face of adversity.

Leaman Long, B.A., B.Ed.
HRM Consultant
Y2 Consulting Psychologists Y2

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