Landing a new job doesn’t mean what it used to. The American dream is no longer to have the big house, white picket fence with the spouse and 2 kids. The new American dream is to be able to afford your bills. The problem is that as a society we haven’t officially accepted this definition change. We still want to live with instant gratification so we think and act like landing a new job is the event that triggers the path down the game of life.
What the Great Recession has taught us:
1) It’s not unreasonable to lose your job unexpectedly by no fault of your own.
2) Landing a new job is not only hard it’s unlikely to be a quick process.
3) What we do with our money should be calculated and no longer merely emotional.
Where am I going with this…
Despite logic we tend to believe that upon landing a job that we are set for life.
Thing is we should prepare for the worse case scenario and prepare for another sudden loss of employment. But many of us go overboard and spend money like there is no tomorrow because we have a steady paycheck.
Unemployment during the Great Recession is a scary and trying time. For those who haven’t lost a job, you’re lucky, you should prepare for the worst now. Those who have recently re-entered the work force should prepare for a repeat stint of unemployment now that you are low in terms of seniority.
What does this all mean?
Don’t go overboard right after getting hired.
We really need to go back to the unwritten rules that governed our parents and grand parents. Build up a 6 month reserve before burning your cash on that new car you have been looking at. Don’t buy a house unless you have to in the first year of your new job.
Job’s aren’t a guarantee anymore especially as profitable companies like Heinz are looking at ways to downsize at a moments notice.
As much as we would all love to blame the government for not coming to us in our time of need or blame banks or blame whoever. If society got back in touch with reality then the tough times wouldn’t be so tough.
Whats the take home message?
Be frugal when you land your dream job (which for many is simply a job). If your dream turns into a nightmare then an exit strategy is in order. As nice as that new car might be it’s not going to put food in your mouth or keep the bank from foreclosing on the roof over your head. You also can’t pay the utilities with broken dreams. Living within our means is the only solution to getting out of the Great Recession.
The site has been getting more traction lately and it also has some jobs you can request to be poached for. So if you’re employed and looking to make a run at the corporate ladder (or at least get some more disposable income) give it a shot!
