What do I do if I’m long term unemployed? I was laid off in December and do t know what to do?

5 Comments

1. AnonymousAugust 19,2024 at 12:36PM UTC

   I was also laid off in December. I was not unhappy about it as it was a pretty toxic relationship and environment with the Director - who's since been promoted in her toxicity. At any rate, have you considered doing consulting work? I did this for a while, then got a FT position. It seems to take a while before the very open market takes a good look at those who've been unemployed for over 6 months...but it will happen!

2. Rachel WeisbergAugust 19,2024 at 12:44PM UTC

   I was unemployed for 18 months, so I understand how you're feeling. it's hard! I'd say the best advice to is to adjust your approach and find a mentor/accountability partner to help the way you think about the search. AND network network network. your next job is likely only one to two connections away, so ask for what you want! good luck, I know this is the pits.

3. AnonymousAugust 19,2024 at 12:56PM UTC

   During the Great RECESSION in 2008- 2009 I was unemployed 2 years. I worked odd jobs and kept my skills up, netwoked. I applied for Food assistance, free bus pass, went to food banks and free job placement through the EDD. Eventually things turned around and it helped that then President Obama extended unemployment benefits to help the country get back on its feet.

4. AnonymousAugust 19,2024 at 1:22PM UTC

   Bridge jobs can be your friend. Retail is about to hit holiday hiring. If you have managerial experience with extra and extended hours, you can likely find a seasonal role to help you get by. Similarly, depending on your state, you can likely do things like substitute teach, work as a student aid, etc. that may not be your dream job, but it will put money in the bank for the short term and let you build back up your UI benefits.

5. DerinAugust 19,2024 at 2:35PM UTC

   @rebeccaruettiger, we are rocking the same boat, just that I have been rocking it longer than you have. I got laid off last year May. It was a shocker! I have been trying ever since. I have taken up sales on the side. I go to homes to Demo the product of my company, developing digital marketing skills also. Please, if you can, pick up a skill for the future now. On the flip, if you are seeing this an you have people-related roles within your companies, please let's connect.