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Article Series: Careers and Jobs
I Want A Better Job. Period.
What
Do I Do If I Lose My Job?
In today's economy, the thought of losing
your job is a real possibility. Perhaps you're already in that
situation. But don't despair, there are things you can do and
places you can go to help you through this tough time.
The first place you must go is to your unemployment agency.
You may even be able to apply for benefits online. Either way,
contacting them is the first step you need to take. The unemployment
agency provides financial benefits to those who qualify and
they'll help you find another job.
Many states are now offering programs that extend unemployment
benefits so you can go back to school and learn a new trade
or skill. Be sure to ask your local agent about any special
programs they're currently offering.
Although they can make a significant difference in the short-term,
unemployment benefits are usually much lower than your normal
salary. However, there are many other sources you can also
take advantage of to help you get by during this rough financial
time.
Let's look at some of your options:
1.
Reduce monthly expenses. Take a serious look at some of
the things you can live without for a while until you get back
on your feet. Go through all of your bills and expenses and
cut out the things that aren't necessities. Be honest with
yourself - just because you think you can't live without your
cable or cell phone, doesn't mean it's true. Some of the first
places to look include:
- Television
- Phones
- both cell and land line
- Cell
texting or other data communications
- Transportation
- Eating
out
- Power
usage
- Air
conditioning and heating
2.
Save money by meal planning. You can save over $100 (based
on a family of 4 with bi-monthly pay periods) on each trip
to the grocery store simply by planning meals ahead, using
coupons and shopping your grocer's weekly sales flyers.
- Not
only will you reduce how much you spend on food, but you'll
probably reduce some weight around your waistline as
well. Who couldn't use that added benefit?
3.
Waiting tables. One of the fastest ways to earn some quick
cash is to wait tables. This may not be glamorous, but it can
bring in some immediate cash, and many restaurants beef up
staff for the summer months.
4.
Community agencies. If you're in dire straits
and need assistance right now, there are many local agencies
you can
turn to for aid. The United Way and Salvation Army are located
in most areas and offer a variety of programs that may be able
to help you.
- Your
area may have different agencies, so check online or in
the phone book for the ones in your community.
5.
Government agencies. Besides the unemployment agency, most
areas have a Department of Human Resources, Social Services,
or Health Department that can help or guide you to assistance.
6.
Sell items on eBay. Take a good look around your home,
shed, or garage. How many boxes do you have lying around filled
with stuff you never use? You'll be surprised at what people
will pay for what you consider junk!
7.
Have a yard sale. You can make a nice chunk of change by
selling off furniture, clothing, and other household items
you don't use anymore.
8.
Set up your own online or offline shop. If you can make
arts and crafts, sell your items on eBay, Etsy or at local
craft fairs.
With some communication, research, and creativity, you can
take advantage of your time off to learn a new skill or start
a new venture with skills and passions you already have. Have
some fun utilizing your creative ability while making the extra
money you need to make ends meet.
These tough financial times don't have to be devastating.
Use these tips to take advantage of the resources available
to you to reduce the negative impact on your life. You may
even look back on this time as the lucky stroke that pushed
you toward success in your new career!
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SolveYourProblem.com
: 2009
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