Posted by Lending Club :: September 25, 2008 @ 1:50 pm

Were you recently let go? Do you know someone who just lost their job? This past week my mother lost her job. I'm sure I'm not the only one who knows someone who has lost their job this year.

You can survive unemployment and put that pink slip behind you. Here's how:

1.Tell Everyone and Their Mom You Got Sacked

Are you ashamed you got laid off? Get over it. It probably wasn't anything personal.

Your best shot at a new (and better) job is by telling everyone you know you've been let go. It's time to cash in all those favors you did the last decade. Get the word out that you are looking for a new job, and would appreciate any help. Unless you're a total jerk, more than a few people will want to help you out.

2. File for Unemployment as Soon as Possible

You've been paying unemployment taxes your whole working life. Don't let your pride get the best of you. Take the checks. There is nothing wrong or shameful in this. File with your state unemployment office.

3. Lock Away Your Credit Cards

Now is not the time to go on a spending spree to ease your pain. Cut out all non-essential spending from your budget. You don't know how long you'll be unemployed. Those unemployment checks won't cover much more than housing and maybe some groceries.

4. Take One Day to Mope, Then Get to Work

You might be tempted to take a vacation to ease your pain, especially if you received a nice severance package from your old job. Don't do it.

Take one day to mope, and then get off your butt and on the phone. Start working your personal network, craigslist, old co-workers, your creepy neighbor, and anyone who could help you land your perfect job.

What's your dream job? Why not take this opportunity to go for it?

5. Get the Family On-Board

Unless you are single, your job loss will also affect your family. Call an old-fashioned family meeting. Go over what happened, what you are doing next, and how your spouse or kids can help.

When my father got laid off after the tech bubble burst, our whole family chipped in. Don't try to do everything on your own. Surely little Johnny can at least mow the lawn for you, right?

6. Avoid Being Alone

Transitioning from a busy office with lots of co-workers to just you at home can be tough. Get as many face-to-face meetings as you can. Work at coffee shops. Have lunch with old friends, former co-workers and roommates. Get out and around people as much as possible.

7. Consider a New Boss: You

Sometimes getting laid off can be a blessing in disguise. Have you ever dreamed of starting your own business? If you have the cash cushion, or can raise the money you need... this could be your time.

What other steps would you recommend to someone recently laid off?

More Tips For Laid Off Workers:

• Tips for if You Get Laid Off
• Job Search Tips