No.10 - Apply for Un-Employment Insurance

If you were downsized or fired then go to your local unemployment office and apply. You may qualify for months of unemployment compensation. If you quit your job then it may be harder to collect but try anyway. They can also help you to write a resume and find a new job.

No.9 - Assess your finances

Make sure you can pay the rent and buy food until you find another job. If need be, cancel the fancy HBO cable TV package or start buying the no-name breakfast cereal. Get on a payment plan for other bills if you can. You don't know when you will get a paycheck again so start hoarding the money you have. You may need to get a part-time job before you get a full-time job of your choice. Swallow your pride and do what needs to be done.

No.8 - Update your resume

Include all skills and education you have and show potential employers what you have done in quantifiable and measurable terms. Never lie on a resume, but 'puffing' your accomplishments within reason is acceptable. Only include references that you know will speak highly of you. Include key words that will get the future employers attention. Most resumes are scanned by computers so a good trick to use is customize the resume and cover letter for the specific job you are applying for. Use the same words companies use in the job description such as, 'Self-Starter' or 'Proven Results.' They will be picked up by the computer and get your resume moved to the top of the pile.

No.7 - Network

Ok, you want to stay low key and not let everyone know you are unemployed. You have to do just the opposite and let everyone know you are looking for a job. Networking is the #1 way people find jobs. Let your working friends and family know that you are looking for and need a job now. Everyone has been in your situation before and knows what it is like. Be honest and get them a copy of your resume. They can usually help you directly or refer you to someone else that is hiring.

No.6 - Relax

Use this time to reassess your career choices, catch up on some reading or just veg in front of the TV for a few days. You don't have to get up at 6am anymore to drive in rush hour traffic to get to work by 8am. Take a walk, smell the coffee, play with the kids. Give your mind a chance to recharge and re-evaluate your life. Maybe a new career is what you need. Maybe even a new city. The point is, take this down time to sit back and enjoy your vacation. You'll be back to work soon enough and your next vacation will be a year away.