You can turn unemployment
to your personal advantage.

s a group, virtually everyone who is unemployed eventually becomes reemployed, but some do it quickly, while others struggle, give up or settle for poor positions. With the right effort many can win new jobs that are more attractive than what they had and in healthy industries.

Experience has shown that as time passes, the less capable you will be (both psychologically and emotionally) to do what must be done to win a new job. So, the key is to have a schedule of full activity: meetings, interviews, letter writing, phone calls, follow-ups and negotiations. For action oriented people, being unemployed simply means having the time to do a lot of the things that need to be done. On the other hand, if they aren't active... many quickly get discouraged. Here are some observations.

1—Get support from your employer. Many employers are concerned about their people and want to provide help. With respect to severance, corporations will sometimes extend financial support or maintain benefits. Some firms will also extend outplacement counseling, if you think it would help.
Make sure there is total agreement on the reason for your separation. Work out an explanation that puts you in the best possible light. Once you have arranged for the best possible support, be prepared to explain why you are unemployed. You may be able to state that the termination was due to factors beyond anyone's control, such as a cutback, merger or reorganization.

Where it applies, make the point that the final separation was made at your initiative because you are a loyal person who gives 100%, and you did not want to look for a job while drawing a paycheck, or take a lesser position. And, be ready to provide references who will speak enthusiastically. Consider people you worked with, those who worked for you, customers, suppliers, or influential people in any part of the company.

Never imply threats. If you are in a position to harm your employer, they will know about it without your saying so, and they'll take it into account when they deal with you. It is to your advantage that your relationship remain positive. If you were terminated for performance, remind your employer that judgments about performance can be subjective, and point out that you could be seriously harmed by a negative reference.

2—Get your resumes created and build your knowledge. Review this book a number of times and really learn the content.

3—Get yourself a mentor and become "innovative." It can be anyone you respect. You need to share your progress with that person throughout your campaign. Also set aside one hour each morning to make a list of leads, ideas, and people to contact. Look for breaking news about any industries of interest.

4—Be active, proactive and maintain a winning attitude. Devote two hours a day to sending out letters or phone calling based on a plan of action, and work to arrange at least one interview or personal meeting. And, allow at least a half-hour each day for exercise. Positive thoughts are easier if you stay physically fit.

Common pitfalls when you're unemployed

Turning down your first offer. It should be given consideration. And, the same goes for temporary consulting.
Being unwilling to relocate. Sometimes it is better to go where new firms and industries are springing up. While it is difficult to leave, most people can adjust better than they realize.

Not accepting introductions. We've all heard it. "I'm not going to press myself on my friends." The truth is, most people want to help friends. It makes people feel good to know they've done something, however small, to support your efforts.

Feeling sorry for yourself. It is a normal reaction, but, who is being hurt by these emotions? The answer is you.

Holding out for unrealistic income. Consider a two-step move.

Allowing your health to slip. Attitude and physical fitness go hand in hand. It may be time to focus more on fitness.

Displaying a bad mood. The wrong attitude will alienate those who want to help you.

Allowing financial pressure to cause inertia. Financial pressures are often the toughest to withstand. Don't be afraid to borrow, or to take part-time or temporary work.

What some people say about unemployment

"My advice to others would be to stay busy, be positive and feel good about yourself. I know it isn't the main purpose, but your system builds confidence and self esteem."

"I have been unemployed three times in my career. As a result, I have become somewhat of an expert. Building an entirely new will to succeed is the truly essential ingredient."

"If a person can build a will to succeed, then with your system it is only a matter of time. On the other hand, things won't go well if they dwell on the past."