by Tamara Brown

Created on: March 05, 2009

Sometimes, you can smell a layoff coming a mile away. Management begins looking nervous, cardboard boxes line the halls, and HR just ordered a suspiciously large amount of pink paper. However, sometimes they can come out of nowhere, catching everyone by surprise. Rather than be caught off-guard, here are some things you can think about now that can cushion the blow if a layoff becomes your fate.

Since you may be entering the job hunt soon, get your tools ready. Don't wait until the pink slip arrives; update your resumes now. This includes stay at home moms. Arrangements may have to temporarily change if the husband can't find work. Having resumes prepared will mean that you can hit the ground running during your job search and hopefully find a new job before the severance runs out.

Another idea that can make the job search easier is to make list of business contacts who could help you find a new job if necessary. How many times have clients, vendors or competitors mentioned what a great job you are doing? These may be the very people who can lead you to an even better job than the one you have now.
You can also make yourself more attractive for the job market. Update your skills by taking classes, or earning new certifications. If your field is suffering heavily because of layoffs across the board, you may want to gain skills that can help you transition to an entirely different position.

In the area of finances, there are several things you can do now that will make things easier as well. First, make a list of the bills you could immediately eliminate or reduce to save money, i.e. cable, Internet, cell phones, gym membership, etc. Figure out how much money you will need each month to survive if those bills are eliminated. This way you will know if you can afford to take a job with less pay. Also, work towards having 7 months worth of expenses in your savings. In a recession, it takes longer to find a new position. Reduce the stressfulness of waiting by having money to tide you over.

Finally, make a plan to have a strong marriage and family, even during financially difficult times. How will you make sure that your family is working together to get through the tough times?

Losing a job is almost never pleasant, but it doesn't have to ruin your life. You can get through it, and even be better off in the long run. Just get prepared now so that you can move on to your next adventure as soon as possible.

Learn more about this author, Tamara Brown.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.