Remaining Active when Unemployed
The world needs you-even when your are out of work. There are many ways to maximize your time during periods of unemployment, which will enable you to utilize your time wisely while keeping your resume current.
On a personal level, this is an ideal time to take an inventory of your living space and reduce, reuse, or recycle anything you no longer want or need. Items in good condition can be sold online, or at a garage sale, and items that do not sell can be donated.
Next, catalog your gifts, talents, and credentials, then research ways to put them to use. For example, perhaps you are you highly organized, or maybe you know a lot about personal finance. Consider advertising your organizational services online at a competitive rate, or starting a money management blog. For that matter, you can start a blog about anything you are well versed in, or simply blog about the steps you are taking to remain active during unemployment. Do you have a four year degree or higher? In most states, you can become a substitute teacher with a bachelor’s degree in any field. Check with your local school district to find out what their requirements are for substitute teachers.
You can a also consider volunteering in your community and surrounding area. Local schools are a great place to start, and are also valuable for making connections. School personnel are grateful for volunteers, and they make excellent references down the road. Other places to volunteer include your local community center, public library, humane society, church and homeless shelter. Spending time as a volunteer will allow you to make a difference in your community while exposing you to potential employers, and providing you with additional items to list on your resume.
It is also important to remember to market yourself while you are keeping busy at home and as a volunteer. Talk to friends, neighbors, relatives and community members and let them know you are seeking employment. Use the internet to search for jobs and consider broadening your horizons when looking for positions. Be open to part-time as well as full-time positions, and pay attention to fliers and other local advertisements displaying a need for employees.
Do not allow yourself to become discouraged during times of unemployment. Keep a positive attitude, remain active, take good care of yourself and remember, some of the best opportunities appear when least expected!
