“WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU LOSE YOUR JOB”

Tip for the day:  It is your job to clearly express to a potential employer what you can do for their company.  Toot your own horn!

Dear Connie:  I just learned that my company is closing and I am losing my job.  What do I need to do to find another job?

Dear Soon to be Unemployed:  Learning that your job is ending can be a shocking discovery.  The fact that you can not do anything to prevent this from happening can make this a stressful time in your life.

What you can control is your search for a new job.  Most people make the mistake of waiting until their job or unemployment benefits end before starting their job search.  It may take you months to find the job you want and to be offered the job, so, start your search now. 

First, take advantage of everything your company offers to help you transition to another job.  Some companies provide outplacement service that may include workshops on resume writing and interviewing.  You may have state and local representatives on-site to explain filing for unemployment and local career center services.

Next, you need to treat your job search like a marketing campaign.  You need a marketing package that consists of your resume, cover letter and references.  This marketing package becomes your personal advertisement!  If you do not have a resume, this will take some time. You will need to identify your skills and present them clearly in written form.

This is the time to sharpen your interviewing skills.  There are several different types of interviews.  One type that is favored by employers is the panel interview.  Knowing how to handle different types of interviews and practicing your response to questions will help you be more relaxed during your interview.

Finally, let all of your friends and family know you are job searching.  Call up old co-workers and spread the word you are looking for a job.  Networking is the way many people find their next job.

Connie’s Career Corner is your source for career information.  E-mail questions for future columns to ConniesCorner@Nashville.gov .  Visit us at 155 Legends Drive Suite M, Lebanon, TN  37087.

NCAC, a partner with the Tennessee Career Center, is a publicly funded agency that provides career resources to job seekers and employer in Wilson County.

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