For most of us, being without work is a devastating experience and, in today’s market, the time it takes to land a job can be lengthy and discouraging. While it’s easy to crumble under the stress, it is essential to stay positive and active during this time.
Aside from the business of submitting resumes, there is plenty to be done that can open doors down the road. Perhaps the most important is that of networking. Today’s technology allows connections to be made across timelines and industries. While not everyone will prove to be beneficial, it only takes one to open the door to your future.
Social media is a great tool for networking and I highly recommend a completed LinkedIn account to get started. This network of professionals is a place to touch base with former colleagues, as well as to extend your reach through their connections. While it‘s ok to make it known that you’re looking for work, it is essential that you use the medium to showcase your expertise and experience. Do not be afraid to brag about yourself a bit because if you don’t, who will? Just be certain to keep it professional and accurate.
Other social media sites should be utilized with great caution during this time. Being jobless can be discouraging and the temptation to vent that frustration online can be dangerous. Keep your posts positive and productive. It’s great to let your network of friends know that you’re searching for work because they may have an important connection for you; however, they will be hesitant to recommend you to a friend if your recent posts have rambled about how horrible and depressing your life is at the moment. Keep it positive or step away from the keyboard!
Blogging is another important tool that can be intimidating when you first get started, but can truly pay off in the search for employment. Use the free time you have to get up-to-date on anything and everything involving your industry. This can include the study of journal articles and polls to conducting some research on your own. The goal here is to establish your credibility and to become known as a reliable source of information for others in your field. Just be certain that you source properly and give credit where it’s due.
Another great use of time is attending classes or webinars to stay current on industry trends. I know many of you are probably thinking you cannot afford this while you’re unemployed, and I respect and agree with you. However, there are great online resources available that are offered at no charge. Take advantage of them! The more you can learn and grow during this time, the shorter the journey may be.
While you’ll probably never look back on times of unemployment as times of joy, it is the goal to make it as productive as possible. Anything you can do (even on a volunteer basis) that furthers your knowledge and experience in an industry should be viewed as grand opportunities not to be overlooked. Many hiring managers will forgive your gap in employment if you can show that you used it to gain knowledge that will make you a more valuable member of their team.
As difficult as it may be, keep working towards your goals and establishing new ones. The moment of opportunity may arrive when you least expect it and from the most unlikely of sources!
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