One you are an adult, it is important to have a good job. You plan your budget, your life, and your future around the money that you bring into the home. If you are a single income family job security is even more important. It can be difficult in the business world where there can be sudden down-sizing and thousands of lay-offs. Even if you are offered a compensation package, you may have a difficult time before you find your new job. Here are some tips to prepare for the possible job lay-off.
1) You should have an emergency fund saved for your family. It takes most people three to six months to find a new job. If your field has experienced massive lay-offs it may take longer. You should have enough money saved to cover at least six months of expenses.
2) It is important to stay current in your field. This includes taking additional classes and training available to you. Many companies will pay for the training, because it makes you a stronger worker. It will also make your resume stronger. You should take advantage of these opportunities.
3) If your field is highly specialized you may consider branching out into other skill groups. This will allow you to be more competitive. I know one experience in which a younger less experienced employee was chosen over his former manager for a new job, because he knew html. It is important to continue to diversify your skill set so that you are more marketable.
4) You may consider moonlighting while working. This will give you a job that you can fall back on for a short amount of time if you need to. You could also consider freelancing around your current schedule. Both of these would take additional time, but they can also generate additional income.
5) Networking is an important skill that will help you to find a good job. It is important to continue to network while you have your job. This may open doors to you after you have been laid off.
For more tips and articles check out the jobs blog.
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How to Rebound from a Job Loss
How to Survive Job Loss Part II