Have you lost your job? If so, you're not alone. There are always companies that are eliminating jobs or restructuring operations. Unfortunately, it is a normal part of conducting business in today's economy. Keep in mind that you might have advance notice or a lay-off can take you by surprise.

I still remember being shocked when I, and everyone in the same position across the country, were all laid-off one Friday afternoon. The company's restructuring ended up in an offer for a different job a couple of weeks later (which I didn't take), but that didn't mitigate the fact that I was suddenly out of work, without my job, company car, my phone, and everything else that when along with being gainfully employed. In my case, it was an unexpected opportunity to change the focus of my career, so it worked out for the best in the long-run. That's been the case for other job and career changers, as well.

The most important thing to do when you unexpectedly lose your job is to check where you stand as far as benefits and unemployment, then get going on a job search.

Losing Your Job

• Pink Slip? What Now?
• Leaving Your Job
• How to File for Unemployment
• Employee Benefits When You Lose Your Job