Supporting Cast

A key component of a an unexpected job loss, job search and new job is your support network. No one lives in a vacuum. A job loss has a ripple effect from your immediate family, friends and community. That's a part of what makes it so daunting and scary. Where will you turn for income lost? State Unemployment Insurance only pays a third to half of what you were making (and much less for high income earners). Learn ahead of time about resources in your community. There is little job security anymore (unless you have a high demand skill). The F-5 tornado is now headed your way. This is not the best time to plan your response.

"Hope for the best but plan for the worst," the old saying goes. It starts with savings. Save as much money as you can each pay period. Ideally, 10% or more but anything is better than nothing. A good place to start is look at your dining out bills for each month. Sure, you can still treat the family from time to time but don't pay corporations who's job is to maximize profits each month be your main food source. Good nutritious food is not a priority for them. Cooking your own food saves a ton and most likely will be better for you in the long run. This can save a massive amount in medical bills down the road as well. Control debit. Don't let it control you. Credit cards make buying stuff so easy. Just be mindful. Save. Save. Save. And communicate. 

Have a talk with your spouse about job loss. Work out ahead of time what expenses you can cut together. Know each others' expectations. "This is what I plan to do while not working." Hint- get out of the house. Have a place to go like the library, a career center, networking events or a volunteer gig. Don't plop down in front of the TV, computer or tablet. Keep busy. Strong mutual support will see you through. Know your friends.       

Friends... Don't ask "How's the searching going?" It is never great until your jobless pal lands a decent job. Let them tell you how it's going. Don't say stuff like, "I could find a new job in a week." Most likely, you could not. It only makes job seekers feel all the worse. Instead, be supportive. Ask how you can help. Listen. Share ideas when asked.

We all go through job loss at some point or other. Be supportive without being judgemental. When you are the one struggling between one job and the next, the economy is never good. Plan ahead with those around you.