The worst way to approach a job search is to be isolated and unsupported. God made us to be in community from the very beginning. That’s why he created Eve to live with Adam in the Garden of Eden, saying “It’s not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). The believers in the early church “were together and had everything in common…and ate together with glad and sincere hearts” because they needed each other (Acts 2:44, 46). The wisest man in the Bible tells us that “two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). So it’s no wonder you need support during your job search!
This month on the Crossroads Career blog, we’ve talked about some great sources of support during your job search, from the all-important foundation of Scripture, to support to and from your family, to gathering friends around you who understand what you’re going through.
Today we will finish up that series with a list of five more sources of support you might utilize during your job search.
State and Federal Programs
It varies from state to state, but it’s worth checking out what resources are available in your area. American Job Centers provide local help to job seekers. Depending on the circumstances of your job loss, you may be able to get financial help in the form of unemployment insurance. Start by searching for your state in this Unemployment Benefits Finder or check out your state’s Department of Labor for more information.
For example, my home state of Kansas offers unemployment insurance benefits, and also has a whole list of “workforce resources” that includes career search tools, as well as options to explore for food, housing, and childcare assistance, and more. Don’t forget to check with your local libraries, which often have job listings and career development resources available.
Your Local Church
Let your church know that you’re looking for a job. You never know who might know someone who can connect you with your next job opportunity. Consider joining a small group to help give you relational and spiritual support. Some churches have food pantries, prayer teams, or counseling ministries that can help you in different ways during challenging times. If you don’t have a home church, now would be a great time to look for one.
Crossroads Career offers small group materials designed especially for those in job transition. If your church doesn’t have a career ministry, you might decide to be like Becca and start leading a group yourself, just so you can benefit from going through the materials with a group!
Community Networking Groups
Keep your eye out for networking opportunities in your community. Is there a Chamber of Commerce that has local events or meetings? What about a Lion’s Club, a Toastmasters group that’s active, or a professional group for your field? Expand your network by meeting new people. Or expand your knowledge by attending an educational event or training that is relevant to your field.
Career Coaches
If you’re struggling in your job search, consider talking with a career coach. A coach can help provide guidance and tools to improve your job search. Check out our step 3 resources for several options to find a coach.
Crossroads Career
We’re here to help you! Through our Crossroads Career resources, you can better hear God calling, maximize your potential, and get the right job. Here’s a taste of what we have to offer:
- Chat with one of our Crossroads volunteers online.
- Meet with one of our Guides, who are subject matter experts who provide guidance on networking, resumes, interviewing, and compensation during a phone or Zoom conversation with job-seekers. Email support@crossroadscareer.org for more information.
- Check out our books and accompanying online resources.
- Register to access our job search tools, such as an interest profiler, skill matcher, resume builder, and apply for jobs.
- Glean information and encouragement from our videos, podcasts, and webinars.
- Share your prayer requests and we will pray for you!
- Find ministry partners using our materials locally in our list of locations.
Laura Miller works for Crossroads Career as a writer and editor, and lives in the Kansas City area with her accountant husband. Laura hosts and produces The Library Laura Podcast, which is a weekly dose of book recommendations, library love, and literary enthusiasm. She also runs the Crossroads Career Podcast, with new episodes every two weeks to encourage you in your career journey. Previously, she worked in the insurance and retail industries.
