#solosolutions: How to help yourself and a friend during a layoff

The job market is unpredictable right now. If you’re hit with a layoff, you have a lot to think about. Career Contessa and The Muse are great websites for detailed job hunting advice and our New Life Starter Kit offers checklists for the job search. Here’s our list to help you out in those first few days, plus some advice if your friends are laid off.

How to help yourself during a layoff:

• Take a breather for a few days. Give yourself time to process the news.

• Complete medical appointments while you have health insurance.

• Look at health insurance options.

• Assess savings and budget money.

• Update resume and LinkedIn.

• Check your network for any job openings.

• Go to the grocery store during workday hours. One advantage of being unemployed is you can run errands without big crowds.

How to help a friend who’s been laid off:

• Take them out to eat. It’s always nice to treat a friend who may be tight on cash.

• Offer to proof their resume and cover letter.

• Offer to serve as a reference.

• Check your network for any job openings.