Blog Post: Stay Positive, Ask Around and be Flexible!

A friend of mine recently lost his job.  We spoke shortly thereafter and he was doing several things that really impressed me.  I’m certain that he will find employment soon as a result.

1.        Stay Positive – When losing a job, your first reaction might be anger, resentment, sadness, etc.  The sooner you clear your mind of these thoughts the better off you’ll be.  Wallowing in self pity will not help your cause.  Instead, look for positives.  Maybe you’ll really love your next job!  Maybe your next employer will pay you better, treat you better or give you better benefits!  Perhaps you’ll find a new passion! 

2.        Ask Around – My friend did a number of smart things right away.  He spoke  with his former co-workers about finding a new job.  Several had suggestions based on things they noticed and had even interviewed for recently.  My friend also visited the company he worked for prior to his last job.  They are currently in talks about getting back together.  Lastly, he shot an email to his address book mentioning his need to look for work again.  I’m certain at least a few people will recommend a contact, resource or actual job opening.

3.        Be Flexible – If you are currently out of work, take stock of how long you can reasonably pay the bills.  Some of us are in better shape than others.  Based on this, determine how flexible you must be.  Maybe you’ll have to accept a little less money this time around.  Perhaps you should consider a slightly different field of work.  Take a transition job if that makes sense.  Heck, I’d deliver pizzas, shuffle boxes in a warehouse or bus restaurant tables to stay busy and pay the bills.  There are many things available that still allow time to focus on finding something you really like.

This blog was originally posted several months ago.  My friend ended up taking a relatively low paying position with a retail store near his house.  He intended to keep the job until finding something in his field.  Since then, several other employees left the store and my friend developed a great rapport with the owners.  He's been trained for all positions, was upgraded to full time, has received two raises and sees a management opportunity coming up soon!!!