Over 40 million Americans have filed for unemployment claims so far this year, while many others were put on furlough, due to the pandemic putting a halt to many businesses. Losing your job can be both emotionally and financially taxing, especially while the economy is struggling, and many companies are pausing hiring new employees.

Though losing a job can be stressful, there are several ways to help yourself through this situation. The most important piece of advice is to be patient. Be patient with yourself and be patient with the job search. It will be difficult to keep yourself motivated, however, the hospitality industry and its employees are resilient.

Acknowledge your emotions 

Losing your job is similar to every other loss we can experience. You may feel sad, angry, or even relieved. You may even experience all of those emotions in one day. Regardless of what you feel day in and day out, it is normal. Give yourself time to process your emotions, and when you feel ready, set your sights on your next career move. 

Assess your financial situation 

As if losing your job isn’t stressful enough, you may have just also lost your main source of income. Make sure to file for unemployment as soon as possible, taking into consideration a lag in receiving unemployment due to the high rate of filings. The extra unemployment benefit ends on July 31st, however, if you file before then and do not immediately receive your benefits you will still receive the extra benefits you were owed once your unemployment begins. 

Depending on what your overall financial situation will be with unemployment benefits, you may consider taking a temporary position instead while applying to find a new job. 

Don’t let it define you 

Many people are going through the same experience as you are right now, and most people will experience job loss at some point in their careers. You are not a failure, as hard as this may be. This is an opportunity to build resilience and remind yourself that you are not defined by your job, especially when the world is going through an economic downturn. 

Prioritize your mental health

Surround yourself with positive people who will lift you up during this time or connect with other coworkers or friends and family who are experiencing the same situation. You can help motivate each other and talk through emotions, concerns, and unknowns. 

Make sure to schedule some time for you to do things that make you feel better as well, whether that be exercising, reading, listening to music or podcasts, and more. It will be easier to look for a new job if you feel rested and ready as opposed to burnt out and anxious.  

Consider your next career move 

This is a great time to reevaluate your career move and update your resume. Think of your past positions and what parts gave you the most joy to include those in your job search for your next job. 

Research any certifications that can help set you apart from other candidates. The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) and Servsafe offer many certifications for multiple hospitality positions. If you already have certificates, check their expiration date. This would also be a great time to recertify yourself. 

Although it may seem like there is no end in sight right now for a job search, eventually companies will be hiring again once the demand for hospitality services resume and the economy picks up.