It used to be, back in the good old days when the economy wasn't in the toilet, that people were not only able to get jobs, but they were able to keep them.

It's just not that way anymore. Even if you have never lost a job, chances are that you know someone who has.

There is no more sickening feeling than to be called into an office, told to shut the door, and learning that your services are no longer needed.

What do you do when your world has been suddenly pulled out from under you?

If you're lucky, you apply for unemployment compensation and eventually start receiving payments.

However, it takes a while to get that money sometimes, and meanwhile, your family has to eat.

Maybe, if the job you've lost is in a dead-end business, it's time to consider some career changes.

After all, if you've lost your job because of cuts forced by the economy, don't you think that's a sign that the jobs in that field are drying up?

Here's some things to remember when looking to change your career course:

1. List you marketable skills. If you've held a job, you have skills of one kind or another. Maybe you are a good writer, good on the computer, or you can bake a killer birthday cake.

2. On your next list, think of occupations that interest you. It's likely if you are good at something, you'll think of occupations along those lines. For example, back to the writing. If you're a good writer, your options aren't just limited to working at newspaper. You can look for work providing website content; writing brochure copy; doing technical writing for a company or even writing resumes.

3. Consider some additional training. Many states offer college tuition grants as part of an unemployment package. Did you know there are many high-paying jobs, such as working as a paralegal or doing medical transcription, that don't take much more than a year of training but that eventually can become very profitable? So, even if you have to take a lower-paying job for the time being, consider some classes at your local community college. It's likely you'll qualify for a higher education grant that you can invest in your future.

4. Network, network, network. If you're still on good terms with a previous employer and you left that job under good conditions, call that boss and ask if there are any openings. You may have to start back at a lower pay rate, but many bosses are glad to get a good former employee back . And the worst they can do is say no.

5. While you're networking, don't forget your friends, and don't be shy about asking them if they know of any jobs. This is especially good if you have friends who work in one of your dream occupations – they might just know of an opening!

Most of all, don't panic. There are a lot of people unemployed, but if you take a little time to breathe and think, you might just find yourself on a while new career tack.