Bouncing back from job loss

Sydney 10 December, 2003 - The best way to cope with losing your job is to make yourself a new one: job-hunting. Treating the search for a new career as a full-time job lessens the sense of loss and puts you back in control of your work life, a leading recruitment expert says.

According to the chief executive officer of Jobfind Centres, Mr Con Kittos, given the significant contribution work makes to our lives; it is both normal and healthy to experience grief and stress over a job loss or retrenchment, especially for mature-age workers. But there is a way to deal with it.

"Jobs give us control over our life, opportunities to use our skills, routine and variety. But job-hunting can provide all of these things if you approach it with the commitment and attitude you would bring to any other job. Research and experience tells us that being consistent and positive is the key to success in the job search process", he said.

Like any regular job, job-hunting requires some core qualities:
· Being organised and systematic
· A willingness to learn, take advice and try new things
· A positive attitude and enthusiasm
· Discipline and tenacity

This serious, systematic approach underpins Jobfind's philosophy, which provides expert support and guidance to mature-age employees who have been out of the job market for a long period of time. As part of the Federal Government's Job Network, Jobfind Centres is able to help individuals get back into the workforce as quickly as possible.

"No matter what your level of employment, there are fundamental steps to follow to re-establish a career. It's about turning it into a positive opportunity - a time to assess yourself, your career direction and areas for development. Then you need to market yourself effectively, and finally, be prepared to make the most of the interview and selection process", Mr Kittos said.

Mr Kittos says it is also crucial that part of the process to determine the type of role you're suited to. Look at your previous two to three roles and list:
· Your main responsibilities
· What you enjoyed/dislike about the job
· What competencies it developed
· How it could have been better/more fulfilling
· Skills you didn't use but would like to

"Jobfind help many mature age workers map out new career directions and focus on your core capabilities. Whether you to go onto further study, or re-affirm your current direction, our staff can guide candidates in the right direction. While job loss can be traumatic, it can also be an important opportunity for renewal", Mr Kittos said.

Contact information:
info@jobfindcentre.com.au