4 Ways to Cope With Job Loss

In this current job market, few things feel as bad as losing your job. Whether you were downsized, fired or laid off, the end result is that suddenly you're not bringing in a pay check. It can be financially and spiritually devastating.

Still, you know in the back of your mind that there is no way you aren't ever going to find a job. It might take longer than it would have a few years ago, but you will find a job. Until then, it's important to keep your spirits up, get closure and move on.

Dealing with the situation effectively is the first step to moving on with your life and finding a new job, a new career or a new opportunity.

Here are 4 ways to recover from job loss:

Build on your network – Now that your day isn't so busy with work, you have a chance to really focus on building your professional network. Talk to your previous co-workers and even your former boss if you are on good terms and ask for introductions to contacts they might have. You can also look for industry functions and other networking events in your area. Volunteer to help at job fairs or do anything you can think of that will allow you to meet new people and expand your network.

Say goodbyes (but get contact info) – Before you leave, say your goodbyes and get contact information from each of your co-workers. You never know when they might come in handy. Also, if several people from your company have been let go at the same time, these people can be a valuable support group. You can even plan weekly get-togethers where you share job leads and other information.

Keep records – When you are cleaning out your desk or sifting through the piles of paperwork you had lying around, look for things you can save as examples of your work. For example, if you received written commendations, awards, certificates and the like, make sure you file them away. Be careful that you don't save anything that has sensitive information and don't take files from your company.

Use your time wisely – Of course you want to devote a large portion of your time to finding a new job, but also think about some of the things you have always wanted to do but couldn't find the time. Work on a hobby, take a trip, take a class, sign up for dance lessons or cooking lessons or whatever it is. Even though it is tough right now, this might be your last chance to have fun without worrying about your work schedule. You can also use this time to think about where you really want to be in your career. Maybe it's time for a change. Work on that while you're looking for a new job.

What other things do you think can really help you when you're out of work? Please share your thoughts and tips in the comment section.

By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a 9 year blog veteran and a freelance writer for ManhattanJobsBlog and Nexxt. Along with helping others find the job of their dreams, she enjoys computer geekery, raising a teenager, supporting her local library, writing about herself in the third person and working on her next novel.