Hello,

I was recently laid off after 6 years and I really don't know what to do, how to look for a job considering the current unemployment situation in our country. I need to work on selling myself. Any and all input is greatly appreciated!

I want to cash out my 401K due to the fact I REALLY NEED THE CASH! How long does it take?

Thanks! :o

First off where do you live? In Canada OR USA, I know for a fact that there are unemployment places that provide training for you with little or no cost. You can also go to: Kijiji Toronto Classifieds: Free Classified Ads for Toronto, Ontario or Kijiji USA Free Classifieds - Post & Search Free Classified Ads and find your location. There are numerous things like Job Ads and community events [i.e. Job Fairs, Job connect,].

Good luck to you!

MRS.S

Hi, momof3boys!

Greetings and WELCOME to the site! I just merged together and moved your questions that you had posted in Introductions to this forum topic area so that it will get the most exposure to those who are best able to answer it. Introductions is for people to introduce themselves and we try to not ask questions there.

It can be a little confusing when first learning how to use this site! Your question will get noticed much more in this forum topic area.

We would appreciate it if you would return to Introductions sometime to tell us a little about yourself though, if you would be willing to do that.

I do note that your post did receive one reply already while it was in Introductions.

Concerning your question - what sort of education, training and work experience do you already have, please?

Thanks!

I caution you not to cash in your 401(k). It may seem like a lifeline now, but, trust me, when you get to be my age (old), it will be more of a lifeline! Do your best to cut back and find creative ways to save money.

I hope you respond to Clough's question about education, training, and job experience. I've helped people job hunt since 1985, and, even though the current economic climate is very overcast, I may have some interesting suggestions for you.

Thanks and Hi, Wondergirl!

It could be that you might have some skills that you could hone that might be a little rusty, but that might help you to make ends meet.

There are many programs that are out there that could become useful to you. Is it possible that you could get into schooling?
Tests can be done, counseling can be done to help figure out what you want to do. To help you step by step.

I know it must be hard, I myself have been laid off after 11 years of being in the same job. There is always hope and change that can make a big difference. You just have to reach out and ask. There should be many programs available to you that will help you reach your goals and at the same time help you financially along the way.

I know that healthcare is looking for people. Many of the training programs for CNA or medical coding or LPN or EMT are short but also are entries for more professional and lucrative medical careers.

There is always a demand in health care. For sure. Look for training and schooling or try to get into the work force that you will know that it is always in demand.

Another industry that is hiring is public libraries. All you need to work at the front desk is a high school diploma. Good customer service skills and an open mind are the two main qualifications. Even some of the jobs in cataloging/tech services are entry level and don't demand a library degree. I've done all sorts of jobs in libraries for almost 30 years without a library degree.

Education is another industry that is opening up, with many baby boomer teachers and administrators beginning to retire.

Is your resume up-to-date?

Finding a job is a job. You can put an ad in the local paper. I picked up a bookkeeping job doing this. Just list your skills. Don't give up. Check the papers, check online, send in resumes. Good Luck and God Bless!

I would visit you local college campus. They typically have a Career Department with an advance resume maker. They can help you polish up your current resume while giving you some wonderful hiring tips.

Invest in resume paper, with the economy the way it is employers are getting three times or more resumes / applications for the same positions that they usually had. With the difference in paper quality you are allowing your resume to stand out and more likely have more access to employers.

It's an employers market. Remember to build your skills by taking some additional classes at your local college if you can.

You will regret if you decide to cash out your 401K, along with taking a huge ding for doing so. Investigate other options.