Most businesses are temporarily shut down in compliance with the health and safety measures implemented due to the pandemic. Except for government employees and those who work for essential businesses that are permitted to operate, employees are forced to go on work hiatus. Some are lucky to still receive compensation or continue working under a telecommute scheme. But for others, the “no work, no pay” rule applies. Here’s what you can do if you’ve been laid off.

Assess your expenses

Naturally, when you have no regular salary to look forward to, you have to follow a stricter budget than usual. It’s still uncertain as to when you’ll assume a new role and so you have to stock up on necessary resources, especially this quarantine period. The things that should be on your list are food, medicine and home supplies. With the enhanced community quarantine extended, you need to save as much as you can.

Undergo evaluation

Take your time off as a way to assess your past and current situation as well as to recalibrate your expectations. Look back and think about what you could’ve done in order to better prepare yourself for what’s happening right now. Were you able to secure a financial safety net beforehand? Did you perform well in your previous job? What’s your goal after the crisis ends? After determining certain factors, lay out the alternatives you have at the moment. And while you’re at it, rebuild your professional identity and refuel your motivation to get you back on your feet.

Get to work

Whether it’s a temporary online job to get you through the quarantine period or a long-term career you want to pursue, the important thing is to look ahead and get started—you can already begin your job search. Staying still is a luxury most can’t afford. There’s enough time on your hands that you can utilize to hone your skills and learn new ones. You’ll never know what might come in handy for your next job.

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