From the August issue of PRofessional Solutions, LLC’s newsletter, “Smart Solutions”

Whether you’ve been fired or laid off, staying positive during the search for your next job is important but can be challenging. We recommend the following tactics to keep from developing what we call “the stench of defeat”:

• Keep regular business hours and routine even if you don’t have an interview that day. Start your day early, shower and dress in business office attire. Staying in your pajamas all day will erode your self-confidence.
• On a day when you’re going out for an interview, plan an additional activity that will be uplifting–lunch with a friend who works nearby, a visit to a museum, a walk along the waterfront. Take advantage of the free time you won’t have once you start your new job and do some things you enjoy.
• Attend networking and professional society events. Reconnecting with former colleagues, learning about new techniques within the industry and making new contacts can help you feel fresh and keep a positive outlook even if your search for the next job is lengthy.