Even if you don't love your job, losing it--whether because of company layoffs or being fired--is a stressful experience. Trying to get employment after a job termination can be even more stressful. The key to making the transition from terminated to employed is to treat looking for a job with the same commitment and energy that you'd use working at a job.
Step 1
Try to track down a reference from your previous job. Ask your supervisor for a reference if you were laid off. If you were fired, think about co-workers and managers you worked with who might make good references.
Step 2
Update your resume. Visit your college's job services department or your community's job resource center for help maximizing your resume, or ask a friend to go over it with you. Make sure your resume reflects your skills as well as the jobs you've held.
Step 3
Let friends and family know you're looking for a job. You don't have to let people know that you were terminated if you would prefer not to, but reaching out may bring you interview opportunities as well as emotional support.
Step 4
Plan to spend five to seven hours a day looking for jobs. Use this time to work on your resume, reach out to professional contacts, pursue jobs leads and write cover letters. Consider taking a class or learning a new skill to improve your resume.
Step 5
Boost your confidence by making a list of "great work" moments from your previous jobs. Jot down a list of times when you succeeded at doing something difficult or made a positive impact with your job. Getting terminated can take a toll on your self esteem, so keep this list handy for times when you're feeling less-than-confident.
Step 6
Be honest in interviews. Don't lie about your reasons for leaving your job because a potential employer could easily find out. Keep it simple, but tell the truth.
Step 7
Don't bad-mouth your former company. Even if they treated you badly, keep your comments positive. Focus on what you learned and how you grew during your time at the company, and save your gripes for the next time you're having drinks with a friend.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're feeling depressed or stressed about your financial situation, contact your community resources department to find out what kind of help they have available. Many offer low- or no-cost counseling and financial assistance to people who have lost their jobs.
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