With unemployment at multi-year highs, some people are wondering how they should proceed. My brother-in-law is one of these folks. He lost his job about two months ago and has yet to get another.

Wisebread offers some very practical advice about 7 things you can do if you are unemployed. Here they are, with my thoughts on the subject:

1. Let people know. It is terribly important that your network know that you have been laid off. This can lead to several job leads. Now that the entire family has been apprised of my husband’s brother’s situation, connections are pouring in — some even in his industry. Your network can be a great place to turn to find a new job.
2. Unemployment benefits. This is especially important if you have a family. Unemployment benefits can help you muddle throug, paying your bills, as you re-structure your household budget and look for a new job.
3. Re-do your household budget. Now is the time to get rid of the cable TV. Figure out what things you can cut from your budget. Make more meals from scratch at home. Realize that frugality is now a complete necessity.
4. Open your mind to other jobs. You may have to take something that pays less. Also, it is can help to broaden your requirement’s. My brother-in-law is doing odd jobs for a friend’s father every now and then while he looks for a job. It isn’t his first choice, but money is money right now, and he needs it.
5. Stay healthy. I found this an interesting piece of advice for those who just lost a job. Then I realized how much sense it makes. Without health insurance benefits from your job, and sort of medical care is going to be a real issue.
6. Be organized when on the job hunt. You need to keep things straight as you look for a job. Wisebread suggests that you keep a log of where and when you submitted your resume, and organize when you have interview appointments. You should also keep track of application deadlines.
7. Avoid moping. It can be easy to get discouraged. However, it is important to redo your resume, brush up on your interview skills and get out there. The longer you sit without doing something, the harder it will be for your personal finances to recover.

Post from: EveryJoe

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