What would you do if you were laid off today? It’s not as simple as running out and getting a new one for most individuals. Having an employment strategy will give you direction, allowing you to stay calm and continue your job search. Here are 4 steps on how to create a great employment plan.
Step 1: Maintain an emergency fund
If you lose your job, an emergency fund will come in handy. Having emergency funds can keep you from surviving on ramen noodles and battling bill collectors until you find a new job.
An emergency fund will provide you peace of mind and reduce the stress of your job search.
If so, how much is enough?
- Aim for six months of expenditures.
Hopefully, it will not take you six months to find a new employment, but if it does, you will be compensated.
Step 2: Build and maintain a professional network
If you lose your employment, your network can come to your rescue. According to LinkedIn, networking is responsible for filling 85% of positions. At least 70% of available positions are not even mentioned.
It all comes down to who you know.
Start working on expanding your professional network if you haven’t already. If you lose your job, you can use your contacts to help you locate another.
Step 3: Keep on improving your skills
Developing your abilities can assist you in obtaining a new and better career. The greatest time to improve your talents is now, while you are still employed. Take advantage of any educational benefits provided by your work.
Take classes in anything that will help you advance in your career.
Education will increase your employee value and open the door to numerous work options.
What if your employer does not provide educational benefits?
- Try online classes such as those provided by Coursera or EdX.
- Participate in industry-related workshops.
- Obtain industry-specific certificates.
Develop a job-search plan
If you lose your job, having a plan in place to locate a new one can save you time and increase your chances of success.
To create a solid strategy, follow these steps:
- Asses your own talents and weaknesses. Be truthful. What are you able to work on? What are your strong points?
- What qualifications do you need to get a new or better job?
- Who do you need to network with in order to increase your chances of finding a job?
Answering these questions will assist you in developing a job-search plan. You’ll have the necessary skills to land a job faster. When revising your resume and interviewing, you’ll know which flaws to work on and which strengths to leverage. And you’ll know who to contact to broaden your professional network.
Another consideration for your employment strategy:
Understanding how to apply for unemployment compensation. These advantages will keep you afloat while you look for a new employment. Making a simple employment plan will help you prepare for the worst-case scenario, preventing job loss from bankrupting you.