6 ways to support an out-of-work friend

Being out of work can be difficult on a number of levels. Reassurance and encouragement from friends and family is essential in supporting job seekers through what can be a frustrating and isolating time. It can take months to get through the recruitment process from beginning to end and sometimes even getting through the first hurdle of the interview can be difficult.

There are a few simple things you can do to help support someone who is out of work and in need of some encouragement and guidance.

• A phone call - A simple phone call can be the first step to letting them know you are thinking about them.
• An attentive ear - You don't have to have a job lead, or a contact or solution to honestly ask a friend, "How are things going?" Just have the courage to listen and be supportive.
• A networking contact - It's estimated that every person knows approximately 200 people. Think of just one person who could be a good contact for your friend. You may know someone who has just finished a job search that has some useful job-hunting tips. Or, you may be able offer a contact that has first-hand knowledge of a specific company of interest to your friend.
• A little positive feedback - Listen carefully and point out the positive things the person is trying to do to get a job. Be sincere and natural.
• An invitation - Invite a friend to a business exhibition or other gathering where he or she might make contacts that could be good leads, or extend an invitation to a social get-together, which can simply provide some relaxing time away from the worry of the job search for your friend.
• A bit of humor - There's nothing like a good laugh to turn a situation around — or at least lighten it up for a few moments.

Above all, when we give of ourselves to others, life becomes much more enjoyable.