Be tactful in an exit interview.

Many companies grant exit interviews. If you are going to partake in one, be direct and honest, yet tactful. Ask important questions like how to extend your health care benefits and when you can get a letter of recommendation. Whatever you do, don’t burn any bridges by getting nasty or denigrating the company.

Don’t jump into your job search right away.

You’re probably a little panicked, but it’s a good idea to hold off on looking for a new job for a few days. Chances are, you’re still reeling from being laid off, and that’s not a good mindset to be in when you’re interviewing for a new position. So take a couple days off to calm down and create a game plan.

Sign up for unemployment.

With unemployment, there’s typically about a two-week waiting period before you will start receiving assistance – so be sure to sign up immediately.

Make a new budget.

Now that you’ve been laid off, you may want to consider creating a survival budget. Jot down all your monthly expenses and put them into one of two columns – essential (mortgage, car, gas, food, etc.) and non-essential (gym membership, nail salon, cleaning person, etc.). Now consider canceling or holding off on some of these non-essential expenses in order to save money.

Maintain a normal routine.

Whatever you do, don’t stay in bed until 2 p.m. It’s important that you continue to get up each morning at the same time and get ready for the day. Also, don’t spend eight hours every day looking for a new job because you’ll burn out. Simply schedule a few hours each morning or afternoon for your search and then devote the rest of your time to other activities.

Think about working for a temporary employment firm.

Working for a temporary employment firm is a good way to maintain your existing skills and learn new ones. Plus, many temporary positions can turn into full-time opportunities.

If you’re looking for a job in Charlottesville or anywhere in Central Virginia, contact Adams & Garth. Whether you’re interested in a temporary job or want to find a full-time opportunity, we can help. We work with some of the leading employers in the region and can give you access to a host of job opportunities you may not otherwise know about.

Have you ever been downsized? What advice would you share with people who have been recently laid off?