So you’ve been fired. Or “downsized.” Or laid off, discharged, terminated or “forced to resign.” Whatever the case may be, your first question is likely to be, “Now what?” Your best bet is to move on as quickly as possible with as much grace and professionalism as you can muster, making sure to maintain good relations with your former colleagues.
File for unemployment benefits, including COBRA insurance. Even if you’ve been fired, your former employer’s reason for firing you may not be legit and you could qualify for benefits.
Don’t raid the piggy bank. Though it may be tempting, don’t touch your 401(k). If you do, you may lose a large portion of it to taxes and penalties, and the amount you withdraw will be added to your income, possibly pushing you into a higher income bracket.
Protect your assets. Contact your lenders and creditors and tell them you’ve lost your job. Many will offer temporary payment reductions. If you assess your budget and think you might not be able to make ends meet, don’t resort to credit cards. Instead, swallow your pride and ask for help with health insurance premiums, utilities, food and other necessities available through state and local agencies. If your children have been involved in activities that require participation fees, ask about a scholarship or reduced fee for them this year, explaining your circumstances. Many organizations set money aside for circumstances like these.
Research your salary and job options. Getting “let go” can be a sign that a job or an employer just isn’t a good fit for you. Instead of fixating on what you’ve lost, look to the future. Compare your salary to others with similar education and experience to get a sense of your earning potential. Take it a step further and consider the types of jobs that might be available to you. Look for something that matches your passion, your career goals and your salary requirements.
Handle your job loss with care. If you were terminated, you might want to leave that job off your résumé. Even if it was the most enviable job in the world, avoid bringing it up in an interview.
Don’t get revenge; get a better job. It’s said that the best revenge is success. If you’re still smarting after being let go, channel your energy into getting a better job with a competitor. Your former employer may regret letting you go when you end up working for the competition down the street.
Stay busy. Looking for a job is a job in and of itself. You won’t have time to feel sorry for yourself if you continue looking for work and taking freelance or temp jobs until something permanent comes along.
Reboot My Résumé 