So, you’re furloughed but you’re a work from home employee? That’s a tricky spot! It might feel unsettling, but it’s also a chance to recharge, reskill, and prepare for what comes next. This guide is packed with practical advice to help you navigate this period and come out stronger on the other side.
Understanding Your Furlough: The Foundation
First things first, make absolutely sure you understand the terms of your furlough. Don’t just skim the paperwork! This is crucial. What benefits are you still entitled to? Will you still receive health insurance? Is there any possibility of being called back to work, and if so, what’s the timeline and procedure? For example, during the peak of the pandemic in 2020, many companies furloughed employees with the promise of bringing them back within a few months. However, the reality was much more complex and depended heavily on the sector. Knowing where you stand regarding benefits and potential recall is your starting point. This isn’t legal advice, but rather a suggestion to obtain clarity and understand company policy on the impact to your employment situation.
It’s also vital to understand your company’s policies on communication during your furlough. Are you allowed to contact your colleagues? Can you access your work email? Some companies may enforce stricter rules than others. Knowing these boundaries will save you from any awkward or potentially problematic situations. For example, if your company explicitly states that you should not access your email, resist the urge to check in.
Finally, document everything. Keep a record of all communications with your employer regarding your furlough – emails, letters, anything official. This documentation could be incredibly valuable in the future if any disputes arise concerning benefits or your employment status.
Financial Planning: Making Your Money Work For You
Okay, let’s face it, a furlough often means a significant drop in income. Creating a realistic budget is essential. Start by listing all your monthly expenses. Be honest with yourself! Identify areas where you can cut back. Consider temporarily suspending subscriptions, reducing dining out, and finding cheaper alternatives for entertainment. Many people were surprised to find how much they could save when they meticulously tracked their spending during previous periods of economic uncertainty.
Explore all available resources. Can you apply for unemployment benefits? Research eligibility requirements and application procedures in your state. Many governments temporarily expanded unemployment benefits during the pandemic, and similar programs might be available now. Look into assistance programs offered by local charities or non-profits.
Consider reaching out to your creditors to discuss payment options. Many lenders are willing to offer temporary forbearance or reduced payment plans to help struggling borrowers. Explaining your situation frankly could buy you valuable time and prevent late fees or negative impacts on your credit score.
Skill Enhancement: Turning Downtime into Uppertime
A furlough can be an amazing opportunity to level up your skills and make yourself even more valuable in the long run. Take a good hard look at your current skills and identify areas where you could improve. Are there any new technologies or software programs that are in demand in your industry?
There are countless online courses and resources available, many of them free or low-cost. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and even YouTube offer courses on a wide range of topics, from coding and data analysis to project management and marketing. LinkedIn Learning is another excellent resource with courses tailored to professional development.
Consider getting a certification in a relevant field. A certificate can demonstrate your expertise and give you a competitive edge when you’re ready to return to the workforce. For instance, a project management certification or a certification in a specific software program can significantly boost your resume.
Beyond formal courses, think about practical ways to apply your skills. Offer your services on a freelance basis, volunteer for a local organization, or start a personal project that allows you to practice and showcase your abilities. This not only helps you hone your skills but also adds relevant experience to your resume.
Networking: Staying Connected and Building Bridges
Don’t let your furlough isolate you. Maintaining and growing your professional network is crucial, especially during times of uncertainty. Reach out to your former colleagues, industry contacts, and even people you’ve always wanted to connect with. This is not the time to be shy!
Actively participate in online professional communities and forums. LinkedIn groups, industry-specific forums, and social media groups can provide valuable opportunities to network, share insights, and learn from others. Engage in discussions, share relevant articles, and offer your expertise to build your online presence and reputation.
Attend virtual industry events and webinars. Many organizations are hosting online events that allow you to connect with professionals from all over the world. These events can provide valuable learning opportunities and networking opportunities that you might not have access to otherwise.
Consider volunteering for a professional organization or cause that you care about. Volunteering can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals, build your skills, and make a positive impact on your community. Plus, it can add valuable experience and connections to your network.
Work From Home Job Search: Preparing for Your Return (Or a New Adventure)
Even if you hope to return to your old job, it’s wise to start preparing for the possibility of a job search. Update your resume and tailor it to highlight your skills and accomplishments. Get feedback from trusted friends, mentors, or career counselors to make sure your resume is clear, concise, and impactful.
Actively search work from home job boards and online career platforms. Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and other websites are great resources for finding job openings. Tailor your search to focus on positions that match your skills and experience. Don’t be afraid to explore new industries or career paths that might be a good fit for you.
Brush up on your interviewing skills. Practice answering common interview questions and consider participating in mock interviews to build your confidence. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the position and the company.
Enhance your online presence. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and professional. Consider creating a personal website or online portfolio to showcase your work. Clean up your social media profiles to ensure they present a positive and professional image. Many employers now check candidates’ social media profiles as part of the hiring process.
Maintaining Well-being: Taking Care of Yourself
A furlough can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. It’s essential to prioritize self-care and find ways to manage stress and maintain a positive outlook. Establish a daily routine that includes regular exercise, healthy meals, and sufficient sleep.
Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax and de-stress. Read a book, listen to music, spend time in nature, or pursue a hobby. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you escape the stresses of your situation.
Stay connected with friends and family. Talking to loved ones can provide emotional support and help you feel less alone. Share your feelings, seek their advice, and lean on them for encouragement.
Consider seeking professional help if you’re struggling to cope with the stress and anxiety of your furlough. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance and support to help you navigate your emotions and develop coping mechanisms. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Staying Positive and Proactive: Your Mindset Matters
A positive mindset can make all the difference during a furlough. Focus on the opportunities that your current situation presents, such as the chance to learn new skills, explore new interests, and spend more time with loved ones.
Set realistic goals for yourself and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable steps can make them feel less overwhelming and more achievable. Acknowledge and appreciate your progress along the way.
Avoid dwelling on negative thoughts and feelings. Practice mindfulness and gratitude to help you stay grounded in the present moment and appreciate the positive aspects of your life. Remember that this situation is temporary, and you will get through it.
Be proactive in your approach to your furlough. Take ownership of your situation and focus on what you can control. Don’t wait for things to happen to you – actively create opportunities for yourself and take steps to improve your situation.
Work From Home Equipment and Resources: Are You Ready?
For those of us who can work from home , it might be worth evaluating work from home set up. Whether you are temporarily furloughed or looking to get a new work from home role, having everything in order is key. Many remote roles that were once location-based, have now shifted to being permanently remote because of higher production among employees. Making sure computers are up-to-date is critical, and having a high speed internet connection helps streamline activities. Consider investing in a decent microphone if your current computer’s speakers are not working correctly. In many cases, computer equipment can be costly. Therefore, having that equipment in order shows employers that you can start work upon hire.
Leveraging Work From Home Benefits
One of the perks of being employed while working from home is the ability to leverage benefits like home office tax deductions. These deductions can help to offset home office expenses, thus saving money. As you look for new roles, inquire if your employer pays for internet. Some companies provide internet stipends in order to offset the cost of internet since you’ll be working from home. If you are using your own equipment, you can ask the employer if there is a reimbursement program to help offset the cost after you’re hired. The best way to maximize work from home benefits, is by making a list to stay organized.
FAQ: Your Furlough Questions Answered
Will I still get paid during my furlough?
The answer to this depends on your employer’s policies and the laws in your state. Some companies offer partial pay or full pay during a furlough, while others do not. It’s crucial to understand the specific details of your furlough agreement. Look into unemployment benefits as a potential source of income during this time.
Will my health insurance continue during my furlough?
This also depends on your employer’s policies. Some companies continue providing health insurance benefits during a furlough, while others do not or may offer COBRA coverage. Check your company’s policies carefully to understand your options and make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage.
Can I look for another job while I’m on furlough?
Generally, yes, you can look for another job while you’re on furlough, unless your furlough agreement specifically states otherwise. However, remember to respect your employer’s policies on communication and confidentiality. During the process of looking for other work, be sure to disclose that you are currently furloughed and not entirely jobless.
What if my employer calls me back to work before my furlough is scheduled to end?
If your employer calls you back to work, you’ll need to evaluate the offer and decide whether you want to return. Consider factors such as the job responsibilities, pay, benefits, and your long-term career goals. If you accept the offer, be sure to follow your employer’s procedures for returning to work.
How can I explain my furlough to potential employers?
Be honest and straightforward about your furlough when talking to potential employers. Explain that your furlough was due to economic circumstances or restructuring, and that you’re eager to return to the workforce. Emphasize the skills and experience you gained in your previous role and highlight the proactive steps you’ve taken to enhance your skills and find new opportunities.
What if I think I am being treated unfairly?
Without constituting professional service, if you feel like you’re being treated unfairly, it may be best to seek legal counsel.
Where can I find more information about my rights as a furloughed employee?
You can find information about your rights as an employee from sources such as the U.S. Department of Labor and your state’s labor agency.
Final Thoughts
Navigating a furlough can be stressful, but it’s also a chance to reflect, learn, and prepare for your next chapter. By understanding your furlough terms, managing your finances, enhancing your skills, networking, and taking care of your well-being, you can weather this storm and come out stronger than ever. Remember to stay positive, be proactive, and focus on what you can control. You’ve got this!