Many American workers laid off in the early days of the recession remain unemployed, and the emotional and practical toll are immense. Coping with the situation requires skills that range from juggling finances and maintaining a positive outlook to stay financially solvent and mentally healthy.
Job Searches and Opportunities
Dedication pays off. Opportunities come and go, and professionals must be ready to identify and take advantage of them as they arise. Many job-search experts recommend that unemployed job seekers establish a rhythm they can follow for the long run: follow up on two job leads every day, contact two companies for open positions, and submit two resumes and cover letters.
Job seekers should also consider their tactics. If you have been out of work for an extended period of time, perhaps it is time to reconsider your methods. Are you looking for the right jobs in the right places? Does you resume need a professional rewrite? You may need more help than you thought.
You may also want to allocate some time to temporary work that maintains an income. Taking part-time jobs, side projects or independent contracting work are good ways to generate income, but they can also distract you if your goal is full-time employment.
One method to achieve balance is to try to for part-time or per-diem employment that could evolve into a permanent position. If that's not possible, job hunters need to set aside a portion of their day to job search, even if it comes at the expense of part-time work; consider it an investment.
Coping with the Economy
Long periods of unemployment can be as hard on your psyche as your bank account. It can be difficult to avoid feeling despondent, but a positive outlook is essential to finding a new job.
Find ways to feel good about how you spend your time "between engagements." Mental-health experts recommend using the time adding to your value by learning new skills, reading industry journals, following industry news, or attending industry meetings and conferences.
It also helps to have a circle of support; one of the best sources is other unemployed professionals. Seek out former colleagues and industry peers who are also out of work and set up a formal system of contact to exchange experiences and share news. As some members of the group find jobs, they also become a source of job-search leads and recommendations.
Long-term unemployment poses a host of issues unfamiliar to many professionals. A dedicated daily job-search regimen will keep your momentum and spirits high. Business cycles will rebound, but in the meantime, stay focused on long term goals, and success will follow.
Author Resource:
Matthew Rothenburg is editor-in-chief of TheLadders.com, the premier job search Web site of $100K+ jobs and career planning .
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