What to do if you lose your job -

What to do if you lose your job - Today, Im happy to share another guest post from my business partner, Hallie Crawford. Do you know you need a career change, but you arent sure what path to take? Hallie specializes in helping recent college grads and boomerangs identify their ideal career paths and make it happen. By Hallie Crawford If youre like me, you hate turning on the morning news these days because of all the doom and gloom with the economy. Theres no doubt about it. The world is a scary place right now. And for many of us, what is especially unnerving is the way the unemployment rate continues to rise. If you are one of those fearful of losing your job or if you have already joined the unemployment line I urge you to maintain a positive attitude. Worrying wont help and, in fact, may create even more problems. Having been through the experience of not having a job, Id like to offer some tips to help you through this unsettling time: Dont panic. Fear and anxiety are natural, but if you allow these emotions to control your thinking, you wont be able to make good decisions about what youre going to do next. Surround yourself with optimistic, supportive people. Misery may love company, but this is not the time to commiserate. You need to remain focused, positive, and inspired. Create a job-hunting schedule. This is an extremely important step because it will keep your mind focused so you dont get depressed. Immediately start looking into websites like CareerBuilder or Monster for an overview of whats out there. Next, do some targeted searches specific to your industry on sites that cater to your area of expertise. Start networking. Networking is still the best way to get a job. Spread the word that you are in job search mode among your friends, family, former co-workers anyone that you know who could help with your job search.   Dig up names from internships or summer jobs and reach out to those people. Join online networking groups (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.). Consider an interim job. It will get you out of the house, boost your morale, and offer some temporary financial assistance. Temporary agencies often have positions that can lead to permanent employment. Look at your situation as an opportunity. If you have ever felt unsatisfied or unfilled in your work, this could be the Universe nudging you to find the job you love! Id suggest the first thing you do when you lose your job is to get some great career search advice. Save time and money I can help you propel your search!    photo by rhys jones photography