Okay, so you got fired and are stumped on what to do? You think the only thing you can do is mope around and think badly about yourself? Think again, below I will help you move on from getting fired and get you back on your feet with a new job!
1. Grieve and then move on.
This is the first step when you get fired. Of course you are going to experience multiple emotions after you hear the news and most of them are probably negative. And yes, probably others deserved it more than you and you hated working there anyways. But, this is the time to get the negativity out of your system and move on with your life. If you let this hang onto you it will impede your search for a new job.
2. Start to build your resume.
You do not want to waste anymore time, if you have not kept your CV current, you need to start building your resume. You need to start putting a list together of all the things you accomplished in your last job. You will want to think about numbers, percents and dollars saved, do not over due your job description. This next resume is basically your marketing brochure to really wow the new employers. The best advice is to seek help from a professional resume service or maybe books on how to write a resume. Also you could always consider partnering with a career coach.
3. Let people know you are on the market.
Many people are ashamed once they are fired and usually keep a low profile so they are not embarrassed. Well, to tell you the truth that is honestly a bad move. You would be surprised as to how many people would be willing to help you out if they knew. Let friends and family know that you are free and are looking for a new team, you would be surprised to know that they may have a lead. Next is to go through a collection of your business card contacts and start to reconnect with former associates.
4. Expand your network.
The beginning part is fairly easy, all you have to do is check in with people that know you, but you also need to keep in mind that you should meet plenty of new people. Build a stronger relationship with the people at the gym or people you usually nod your head to. Spend time talking to people on your child’s soccer team or interact with your siblings friends. Studies are proven that 80% of jobs come through the process of networking.
5. Treat your job search as if it is a full time job.
This means you should work eight hours a day starting with tasks you least enjoy. Pick up your phone and make calls as early in the day as possible – usually this is when you have the most energy. Do not focus too heavily on websites, build relationships, call employers, attend networking events etc. Spend a hour out of your day reading on the career you are trying to get a job with. Using the title professional job seeker may not be something you are proud of, but at least it will be the shortest career you have ever had.
I am sure most of you know of a least one person that smokes, it could be in your family, a friend or a co-worker and I am sure you are probably used to hearing, “I tried to quit,” “I no, I no I need to quit” or “I have smoked for years, why would I quit now, it’s not like my body can repair itself.” Well, you know what, within only 20 minutes of your last cigarette, your body literally starts to repair itself. There truly are endless benefits once you stop smoking. Often knowing the knowledge of these simple facts can really motivate you to take that first step towards a permanent lifestyle change.