I recently had the pleasure of reading Sarah Powers book Unemployment Doesn't have to Suck!: Make it work for you!
(I received a review copy). Sarah who was laid off last year wrote this book as a resource
for others. At 119-pages it is a quick read, but don’t let the brevity fool you
– this book is crammed with useful information. Sarah describes her book as getting down to business quick, telling us she did not write the “bible for unemployment” or a novel. What she did write was a useful guide packed with valuable information including tips she learned from interviewing Leila Winther a coordinator of a career center. The book really has something for everyone, especially if it has been awhile since you’ve had to search for a new job. There is a refresher on unemployment insurance (don’t forget it is taxable income), information for those returning to school, how to cut expenses, what to include on a resume and more. Most helpful though are the additional resources and website links she provides.
Here is a sampling of the information included
in the book:
Did you know there is such a thing as a Lifelong Learning Credit?This is an academic tax break for those of us who already have a bachelor’s degree. The credit reimburses 20% of qualified education expenses you’ve paid (up to $2000).
Did you know many local scholarship funds simply go untouched because students did not take the time to inquire of apply?
I can attest to this. I serve on the board of a local charity that awards two scholarships a year. It is sad to see how few scholarship applications we actually receive. Leila recommends readers view scholarship opportunities at Fastweb.com.
To learn more about yourself and match your
skills to careers, Leila suggests visiting:
mynextmove.orgiseek.org/careers/skillsassessment
Final Thoughts:
If you’ve recently lost your job, been out of work for a while or are searching for a new career you could benefit from this book. The book’s optimistic message – Unemployment doesn’t have to SUCK! - is one anyone who is out of work needs to hear.
Book Giveaway:
I have one extra copy of Unemployment Doesn't have to Suck!: Make it work for you! I’d like
to give away. To be eligible:
1. Leave a comment below telling me why you would like to receive a copy
2. Include your email address If you’ve recently lost your job, been out of work for a while or are searching for a new career you could benefit from this book. The book’s optimistic message – Unemployment doesn’t have to SUCK! - is one anyone who is out of work needs to hear.
Book Giveaway:
I have one extra copy of Unemployment Doesn't have to Suck!: Make it work for you!
I’d like
to give away. To be eligible:1. Leave a comment below telling me why you would like to receive a copy
Drawing entry will close June 30, 2012
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It sounds like a very helpful book. Being without a job can be so discouraging, so I already like that she's looking on the bright side of it. I'm not unemployed, so I won't participate in the giveaway. Great opportunity, though.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great resource. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteStopping by from SITS. Have a great weekend.
This does look like a helpful resource. I can't wait to go find out more about the Lifelong Learning Credit! (Stopping by from SITS)
ReplyDeleteHi stopping by from SITS and that true, there are so many employment opportunities. I work from home and love it.
ReplyDeleteUnemployment doesn't suck at all! I've been out of work for a year and it has allowed me to ne a sahm, something I never would have done on my own.
ReplyDeleteMonica,
ReplyDeleteI agree looking on the bright side has to help when you are unemployed. I imagine it is much harder to do since the Great Depression especially if you are over 50 or don't have experience.
Miss Robin,
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping in.
Melissa,
ReplyDeleteI am thinking about posting more about the Lifelong Learning Credit as we get closer to back to school.
AGapeWoman,
ReplyDeleteNot everyone wants to work from home - they like the social aspect of a job or they need a steady paycheck and benefits. Also, you have to be careful not to fall for a scam, but yes if you do your homework there are legitimate work from home possibilities.
Jen + Jeff,
ReplyDeleteGlad you are enjoying your unemployment. When my husband was laid of back in 2002 he was so stressed about finding a job he didn't enjoy the time off at all.