by Sara W.

Created on: October 20, 2009

A layoff can be a financially and emotionally devastating experience. But did you also know that it can be a time of new opportunities? With this perspective, a layoff can actually be used to better yourself, and to pursue a career that you've always wanted to try. A career change isn't necessarily the solution for everyone after a layoff, but if you are burnt out or dissatisfied with your current career, then it might be the right time for a career change.

Polish Your Resume

Making a career change does not necessarily equal going back to school. Many career fields hire new employees who have little to no experience. For example, if you enjoy crunching numbers, you might like to try a new career in banking or finance. Or if you have a passion for cooking, you might apply to be a chef for a restaurant or hotel chain. Build a generic resume, or build a few different specific resumes, and keep several copies of it on hand at all times, ready to submit to any company for which you think you might like to work. And don't be afraid to think outside of the box. Just because you've never been paid to do something does not disqualify that skill as valid job experience.

Think Co-Op

If you'd like to learn a new trade, but can't afford to go to school without a regular income, then a co-op might be the perfect solution for you. Did you know that many hospitals will give you money for such degrees as nursing or radiology, if you commit to working for them for a certain amount of time after graduation? And while you are taking courses, you can work at the hospital as a custodian or a receptionist. This is a win-win situation, because the hospital gets a commitment from you to work for them, and you get paid training for a technical career.

Another popular co-op is police academy. Your city probably pays for its new officers to attend academy, as long as the student passes and commits to work for their police department. Again, this is a win-win situation. Job security plus paid training, who can resist that?

Chase Your Dreams

Insufficient finances should never be an excuse for not pursuing your passion. Government grants and student loans are plentiful, especially now. Whether you need money to become a helicopter pilot or an accountant, the money is out there if you are diligent to fill out the paperwork. And if you are a parent, it is even easier to qualify for student aid.

Don't let a layoff keep you down. Keep an optimistic attitude and aim high. The sky is the limit, and there is work available for anyone who really wants it!

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