Unemployment, unfortunately, can feel like the apocalypse for many job hunters.  But there is help so you can survive, and maybe thrive, while you are looking for a new job. This information came to me thanks to Zombieland!

Zombieland is a guilty pleasure of mine. I’ve always liked post-zombie apocalypse movies, I don’t know why, I think they appeal to my inner 16 year old. When Zombieland came out I made my poor wife go with me…twice. While the entire world was going to hell, the main character survived by following 33 rules.

When I was looking for a new challenge the other day, it suddenly struck me how many of the rules for surviving Zombieland apply to the job hunt. There are 33 rules from Zombieland so let’s look at them over the next few weeks.  Without further ado, the first part of rules for surviving Unemployedland.

Zombieland rules

1. Cardio

While you may not have to run from ravenous zombies’ hell bent on eating your brain, you do have to keep moving. It can take a lot of strength and stamina to look for a new job. The seemingly endless coffees, networking events, applying for jobs, following up, they can all wear on you. You need to put yourself in training. Exercise, eating right, getting enough sleep, will all help keep you healthy and have stamina in Unemployedland.

2. Double Tap

No you can’t shoot people, no matter what! I don’t care how frustrated you are! What you can do is reach out to someone and arrange coffee, lunch, etc… Then when you are done write a thank you note or thank you email to your contact. Always, always, always, write someone to thank the other person for their time.

3. Beware of Bathrooms

We all have biological needs. I wouldn’t worry too much about this rule. There is one golden rule, always wash your hands!

4. Wear Seat Belts

Enough said.

5. No Attachments

In Zombieland this means going solo, never allowing any emotional bonds. In Unemployedland it means, leave the attachments to your old jobs behind. Don’t hold onto, “I used to do X.” or “I always got paid Y.”. It’s a new world and new economic landscape. Leave the past behind and bring your experience to a new challenge. Be open to new ideas that might come your way.
I’ll add additional rules over the next month or two. If anyone has suggestions/additions/edits, please post a comment.

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