Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
How to support, encourage a friend who’s out of a job
It’s amazing how our minds operate. We can be numb and callous as we read articles about company layoffs. Sometimes we don’t place faces or real circumstances in our minds that accompany layoff circumstances. I suppose that’s one way we are able to deal with the reality of people losing their sources of income.
However, it becomes an entirely different story when the grim reaper of jobs swoops down upon a family member or friend. If one of your friends or someone in your family has lost a job, this article is for you.
Before you take action with someone you know who is looking for a job, consider what impact your activities may have.
You can become a valuable resource for potential job opportunities by staying alert for open positions. Networking is a very effective way to help a friend obtain an interview. Perhaps you know someone who is with a company that can use your unfortunate
friend’s skill sets and capabilities. In addition, how about scanning the “help wanted” ads in your newspaper or on its website to see if anything looks promising?
Don’t verbally jump all over or harass the unfortunate unemployed one — remember, this is a person you care about — because he or she didn’t go on 32 (or even two!) job interviews this week. It takes time and effort to gain an interview; therefore, you should encourage the job seeker for getting granted an interview appointment.
Send or personally give the person’s resume (both print and electronic) to other people — friends, colleagues, business associates, etc. — who may be able to help. Someone you know may work for or even own a company that has jobs available (now or in the future) that fit the unemployed individual’s skill set and experience.
Don’t evaluate a person based on his or her current job status.
Did you know that it’s very common to have company presidents and others get fired, only to have them end up with a better position in the near future? Help them get there.
Be a cheerleader and supporter when your friend receives encouraging signs from potential employers. This could give the job seeker the additional support and confidence level needed to land a new position.
Don’t avoid speaking to friends because they are depressed or “just not themselves lately.” They will benefit from your presence and encouragement. Offer a listening ear and special attention that will help them sort through their thoughts. Your helpful efforts are one important way to prove your value as a friend.