Surviving Unemployment: Preparing for Your Next Career Move

• Author: Jeffrey Simmons
• Posted: 2024-01-17

Searching for a new job can be a daunting task. And even though we are amid the Great Resignation, with numerous open positions and many employers willing to provide significant benefits, it can still be challenging to find a job opportunity that fulfills all of your requirements. If you find yourself looking for a new job but are unsure of how to spend your time while you search, considering the information below can be the key to helping you work towards securing your next career post.

Maintain and Expand Your Skills
One of the best ways to spend your newfound free time is to work on maintaining the many skills you worked so diligently to obtain. Depending on your field, you may need to catch up on continuing education credits or attend a conference or two to network. Or you may even use this time to read more about new developments in your career path.

Remaining up to date is an integral part of the job search process. Many employers tend to hire those already employed as they often view them as having a superior skill set. By making sure your skills are at or above the same level as those searching for similar positions, you can help to ensure you remain competitive in the job market.

Another aspect to consider while searching for a new job is increasing your knowledge and education to make yourself more marketable. For instance, learning a new program, coding language, or software could prove helpful if you work in the technology field. Similarly, finding coursework that will help improve your communication skills may be best if you seek a management position.

Work as a Freelancer or Contractor
In keeping with the idea that having a great set of current skills will help you thrive in your job search, accepting freelance or contract work could be a perfect way to keep your skills relevant while also providing income. Not only can these types of work experiences help you grow professionally, but they can also help you learn more about different companies in your field. And in some instances, freelance work can turn into a job offer.

Additionally, working as a freelancer can provide you with more control of your career. If you decide that you do not like working for a company or person, you can terminate the professional relationship at the conclusion of the project. And once you happen to find your next full-time position, you can continue to work as a freelancer on the side to bring in extra money.

Volunteer at a Non-Profit Organization
Non-profit organizations are usually looking for help to provide services to their clients. Many of them rely on volunteer help and donations to continue working on delivering important social services to their communities. If you are interested in giving back, volunteering at a non-profit for just a couple of hours a week can be a great way to make connections and serve those less fortunate.

Prior to contacting non-profit organizations in your area, you may want to consider the types of causes in which you are interested. Are you someone who would love to spend time with animals? Or would you prefer to tutor students? You can even offer your professional skills and experience to help with a critical project. Thinking about these facts before seeking a great volunteer position can save you time and help ensure a good long-term fit.

Another reason volunteering for a non-profit organization may be best is that it can help you expand your social circle. One of the best ways to find a great job is to not just apply through online employment job sites but rather network and connect with others who have similar interests. Volunteering can place you in a great situation to meet people from various walks of life and learn more about what truly drives your passion. Consider volunteering as a viable option to improve your job prospects.

Job searches can be tedious. Throughout your search, it is important to think about the various aspects of your career path to secure the most beneficial position. Learning how to expand your skillset and use it to benefit your next job and your community can pay dividends and increase your marketability for years into the future.