5 Resources for Unexpected Job Loss

Dealing with the sudden loss of a job? Feeling overwhelmed and not sure how to plan or search for new employment during a pandemic? Here are five resources providing guidance and support for job seekers.

Chicago DigitalLearn is the best place to start if you're just beginning your search but don’t feel confident about your online skills. Here you'll find free, easy-to-follow courses exploring how to create resumes, apply for jobs online and use the job search resources available in Illinois workNet. Additional courses focus on building basic computer and technology skills.

Brainfuse Adult Learning Center provides resume templates—plus personalized feedback on resumes and cover letters from an online writing coach within 24 hours. Coaches review for impact, format, spelling and grammar. You also can interact with live tutors to prepare for interviews and employment tests. Brainfuse also provides links to national and local job list websites.

Want to boost your resume and skill set? Check out "Free Online Tech Courses to Boost Your Skills as You Quarantine," an article packed with sources for a wide range of courses in technology. From Excel spreadsheets to Linux and web development, there is something for all skill levels.

Already have a robust resume filled with great experience? You may want to tweak or rework it after reading "A Resume for New Realities." This short article provides some great pointers for re-imagining your skills and talents in the era of COVID-19.

Lastly, progress is never achieved in panic, so be sure to care for your physical and mental well-being while job searching. The MyHealthfinder Manage Stress toolkit from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is a great resource. It includes a quiz for determining your current level of stress and health as well as helpful exercises, breathing and meditation techniques for overcoming the effects of stress.