Many people have unexpectedly found themselves seeking new opportunities for employment. Don’t despair. It could be the best career opportunity you’ve ever had in your life. Yes. You might be able to secure that perfect job – the one you’ve always wanted.
Here are some tips to help you do that…
Your ideal job or career
Take some time to truly articulate the elements of that perfect career. Avoid focusing on a company or a position – just be honest with yourself about the elements of a perfect situation. Do you want to manage? Do you work best in teams or alone? What are your true strengths? What commute are you willing to take? What would your ideal day on the job look like?
Burn no bridges
It may be that you have been with the same employer for many years and for whatever reason, your position is ending and there are no opportunities that remain. Despite the fact that you are experiencing many different emotions, negotiate a successful exit with your employer including things such as a fair severance package and outsource counseling. Never give the impression you are angry or bitter. You may need a reference from your former employer in the future.
Get off on the right foot.
Now more than ever you need to make sure contacts are updated and that you are keeping a list of companies that you would like an opportunity to speak with. Make sure you take advantage of all networking events offered by professional organizations. Executive coaches can provide valuable assistance in getting you organized for a successful search and in the proper frame of mind. If you can’t afford a private coach, perhaps you have a mentor or friend who is willing. Many local unemployment offices offer resources as well.
Your new job is to get a job
Yes, finding your next job is a job. Here is your opportunity to decide on the next phase of your career. When clients hire me to help them work through this transition, the first thing we establish is that they now have a new job – GETTING one!
It is important to have the appropriate physical surroundings to conduct your search. Make sure you have work space where you can spend uninterrupted time. If you are using your cell phone as your primary contact, record a greeting that is professional. The same should be true for your email address. Set goals for what you will accomplish each week – number of calls per day, number of personal meetings or interviews, etc. 
Be honest with family and friends
Job transition can be a scary time especially as the months go on. Share with your family that finances may be little tight but things will work out. If your family knows that you are confident it will give them greater security. Friends will vary in terms of their comfort level in talking with you. Make them all feel at ease by assuring them you look at this time as an opportunity—because it is.
Set personal goals and reward yourself
This chapter in your life will at times feel both empowering and terrifying. You call the shots now in terms of your schedule but you still have to find a job. Utilize your flexible schedule to do things you could not do when you worked for your previous employer. Attend after school events for your children. Volunteer in your community. Take time each day for an activity you enjoy that does not necessarily cost money. This could include taking a walk or hike or seeing a local attraction that you have driven by for years.
Never underestimate an opportunity
Many positions are secured through personal contacts. It may seem like referrals from those in your network are a waste of time. What if it is a position you are not interested in? Interview anyway. Take advantage of all opportunities to chat with influencers that come your way. Until you investigate an opportunity through personal meetings, you can’t fully know if it is a position you would enjoy. The personal interview for a position you may not be interested in may lead to one that you would like with the same organization. The initial interview is your “foot in the door”.
When people ask “how can I help you”? Make sure you have an answer
Be ready for this question. Many of my coaching clients are stumped with this question. Just realize that many of your contacts will be ready and willing to help. You need to have an answer. Requests should include statements such as: “I hear great things about XYZ company, is there anyone you know there that you could speak to on my behalf”? Or “ABC Company has a (fill in the blank) opening. I would really like to talk with them. Is there a way you can think of making that happen”? 
Use social media
Make sure you have appropriate and complete profiles established on networking sites such as LinkedIn and Face book. A professional picture is key. Companies should be able to see your complete resume on sites such as LinkedIn. Job postings are available on these sites as well.
Don’t dwell on the disappointments and never take it personally.
Despite what you might think, you can’t be all things to all organizations and there are some positions that just aren’t the right fit. Move on to the next opportunity when rejection comes. I like the expression “No means next.” The right opportunity may take a while but it will come along. Perseverance is a true virtue in a job search.
And if you are very clear on the elements of that perfect job, you’ll increase your chances of thoroughly enjoying the next chapter of your life!
