Here are 3 simple steps I recommend if you’ve lost a job.

Step 1)

Write 3 to 5 Qualities Where You Shine (that have some value in workplace). Be honest with yourself. This is not a time to be modest. This isn’t a time to worry about what someone else will think if they see the list you make. There are some traits, some talents that you have that not everyone does. Write those down.

My list:
– Smart – Good at programming
– Strong communication skills
– Enthusiastic and upbeat
– Eager to learn & willing to expose my own ignorance

Step 2)

Send 5 – 10 emails to friends, former co-workers, family telling them you have lost your job and getting their input on what you are good at. Your email could go something like this.

As you may or may not know, I’m currently out-of-work. (only share the details about how/why this happened if you want to). As part of my job search I’ve been told to evaluate my strengths, things I’m good at, skills or personality traits that people who know me value and I’m looking for your input. Could you please list 3 to 5 things that you think I’m particularly good at. P.S. If you happen to want to pass on any hot job tips, that’s great too.

Taking this action will accomplish 3 things. It will get you over the hump of telling people. It will immediately increase your feeling of connection and support. Finally, you will probably discover there are things you are good at, that you hadn’t really thought of.

Step 3)

Plan a regular activity that excites you that you wouldn’t be able to do if you are working full-time. This can be recreational, spiritual, vocational. Anything that is meaningful to you. See my post about Finding a Silver Lining Helping You to Find a New Job for some ideas.

That’s it. You have completed First Aid for Job Loss. Told you it was simple!