You've just been laid off or your business has taken a
nosedive. Or you realize you need a change -- fast.  Nearly
everyone panics and makes at least one of these mistakes.
You're not alone if  you've been there!

1. Sign up for a resume mailing service.

Resist the temptation to hire someone who will blast your
resume to a thousand or more prospective employers,
especially if you're beyond entry level. You may actually
harm your own cause, as recipients will wonder, "Why would
such a qualified candidate do this?"  

2. Sign up for an expensive "new career" program.

Learn a new career for only five thousand dollars. Get
certified as a communications specialist for three thousand.
Learn the secrets of smart investing for a mere ten thousand
dollars. When you're caught in the middle of a crisis, any
of these options will sound like the answer to your prayers.
Take time to do careful research before investing. Often you
can learn all the skills you need at a local community
college for a few hundred dollars.

3. Accept a commission sales job if you've never sold
anything and you even have trouble giving away a litter of
kittens.

My client Griselda called in great excitement. She had
posted her resume to a computerized databank and now she had
a job! Sure, it was straight commission insurance, and she
really didn't understand insurance, but hey -- a job is a
job, right?  Yes!  However, don't stop looking.  Keep your
resume out there.  You may be a millionaire next time we
talk, but you may realize after a week that you're not cut
out for sales.  

4. Rely on an executive recruiter.

Recruiters work for employers, not clients. When they send
you on a job, you may be the designated "alternative
candidate" rather than the first choice. Recruiters will
fill openings they have. They will try to match the
employers specifications, right down to the wire. Don't
expect them to offer you career advice unless you're good
friends or neighbors. Even thenS

5. Embark on a search for meaning.

If you have ample resources, a sabbatical may be a good
investment of time, if you have a plan and a goal.  However,
all those books on "Find the work you love" were written for
people who were not under pressure.  Your first priority is
to create a safety net, a buffer against financial and
emotional disaster.  Once you're comfortable, begin your
search.  

When you're adrift at sea, it's easy to grab for any
floating object that appears to be a life raft.
Unfortunately, you may find yourself clutching a piece of
seaweed or a piece of shark with a full set of teeth.  Help
will come if you don't panic.  And you're a better survivor
than you ever expected.