REconnect Program

First, there’s the searching. It can feel endless and frustrating, so it’s good to have some new places to look.

•    Job sites you might not have tried yet (PDF)

Putting together a resume is also an important thing to do, Where do you start? What should you write on it? What shouldn’t you write?

•    The tricks to writing a great resume (PDF)

And finally, the job interview. Getting an interview is a great thing, but then the nerves hit and it’s hard to know what to say.

•    How to prepare for a job interview (PDF)

This topic looks at ways to maintain your health and wellbeing through what can be a really tough time.
 
There are many reasons for job loss (it’s not personal), and lots of Australians are going through the same challenges. You’re definitely not alone.
 
We reckon the first step in getting through this is to take care of yourself. Yes, seriously! Letting your health go is the last thing you need right now, so it’s important to build ways to look out for number one.
 
So, why not take a look at the three articles below to keep on top of your game.

•    How to practice self care (PDF)  
•    Routines that will help you out of a slump (PDF)
•    How to get a good night's sleep (PDF)

If you’re struggling to find the time or motivation to do the things that help your health and your mind, remember it doesn’t have to be hard – even little bits of time doing the things you enjoy can make a big difference.

Stress hits everyone, and it’s normal to feel like things are getting too much when work has dried up. It’s important, though, not to let that stress get out of control and take over your life.
 
The good news is there are lots of ways you can deal with those worries, and focus on moving towards better times. Yes, it’s time to take charge against the stress and make a fresh start.

•    How to make a fresh start (PDF)

Like anything, stress is best dealt with early, to make sure it doesn’t keep getting worse. A positive approach to dealing with it means taking some action and solving the problems you’re having.

•    Dealing with stress before it gets you down (PDF)

That can be easier said than done, and you might need to ask friends to help you do some problem solving. It’s true what they say: a problem shared is definitely a problem halved.

•    The skills you need to solve any problem (PDF)

Some people find it hard to get together with friends when they’re feeling down, and talking about job loss with friends and family might feel strange. But those people can offer a lot through this tough time – whether you need help with job searching or just a friendly ear.

•    Get by with a little help from your friends (PDF)

 
You can also find support by being around people you don’t know yet. You might want to join a networking group, a sports team or a community group to fill in some time and have some fun.
 
Networking and surrounding yourself with others, whether you know them or not, might even help you find work.

•    The strength of networking (PDF)

 
All of these steps can help you get to know yourself outside work, too. You can use this time to figure out what you want to do, find some different things you enjoy, and get into a new routine.

•    Get to know yourself outside of work (PDF)

 
Getting social is the one thing guaranteed to help lift those spirits. After all, that’s what friends are for.

This week we’re looking at getting by without a pay packet, which might be more possible than you think.

•    How to get by without a pay packet (PDF)

 
The first step is to put together a budget, where you can look at what bills are coming out and the money that’s coming in. And if you’ve been paid out a redundancy or long service leave entitlement, keep it aside in case it takes longer than you expect to find work. You might need that cash for paying your way in the meantime.
 
One of your biggest expenses is food, so the next thing to do is work out how to eat on the cheap. It can be more delicious than you expect, if you take the time to do some planning.

•    Budget recipe ideas you'll love (PDF)

 
It’s also important to continue to have some fun!  Try thinking outside the square about how you can still get out with friends while you’re on a tight budget. Remember, sometimes the best things in life really are free.

•    How to go out when you're on a tight budget (PDF)

It’s really important to get your head around the support services that are available to you. They include:
 
- Your bank: talk about options for how you can meet mortgage payments and pay the bills

- The Department of Human Services (formerly Centrelink): find out if you can access some income support

- Talking to a financial counsellor: financial counsellors are qualified professionals who provide a free, confidential and independent support and advocacy service for people experiencing financial difficulty

•    What support services are available to you (PDF)

 
One way to lift your spirits can be through registering to volunteer with a community group, which may also provide opportunity for you build new skills.

•    Volunteering with a charity or community group (PDF)

Doing a course or shadowing a mate to get the skills you’ll need for your next job can also be useful ways to grow your skill set

•    How to develop the skills you really need (PDF)