How to Stay Productive While Unemployed

 How To Stay Productive When You’re Unemployed

Learn a New Teach Skill--

 Computers, systems, and software change so rapidly that you are losing ground to others if you do nothing to update your tech skills while unemployed. Even nontechnical people can benefit from learning a new computer skill or phone app. Looking for ways to increase your job skills while unemployed is a good way to move forward as well. Look for certifications or training you could take, especially those offered for free. You can qualify more for even entry level positions with extra training in your line of work, and many cities or states offer job skills training. Refreshing your resume, and interview and job skills may make your job hunt easier.


Exercise--

It’s such an important part of staying productive and will also help keep your mood levels up during a time that could easily get you down. While you may not be sharing your exercise plan with a potential employer, the benefits it will have on your overall mood will certainly translate and be to your benefit when interviewing. Even a walk around the block a few times a week can do a lot for keeping you motivated and determined. If you take care of yourself, you can make the most of this extra time.

Start a Blog--

 
The best way of staying productive while unemployed is by publishing online. A blog devoted to your career and specialist area will showcase your knowledge and authority in a way that your LinkedIn profile or resume will not. An authoritative blog built up over the years will clearly show that you are a subject matter expert. It is also likely to lead to connections and a stronger network that will help to avoid unemployment altogether.

Work Online--

Another great option if you’re unemployed is online work. Many different sites offer a variety of ways to make money online, but make sure the site you’re working for is reputable. Micro job sites that pay for you to take surveys, are all quick, legitimate options. While these sites sometimes offer lower pay, it’s always better to move forward slowly than not at all. Another good way to bridge the gap between jobs is to sell unused possessions. eBay and Amazon are both secure sites, but traditional garage sales are a fine option too. Sell off a few video games, or some electronics, for some quick and easy cash while you figure out a permanent solution.

Attend Networking Events--
Find events through your college alumni association, industry organizations, and community groups like the local Chamber of Commerce or Rotary Club. Don’t discount job seeker groups because members are unemployed; a job that’s not right for someone you meet might be perfect for you. While you may not meet someone who offers you a job, you may meet someone who knows someone who will.

Get Out of the House--
Getting out of your comfortable home space and going to the library or a coffee shop can foster more of an office mentality while you are editing documents and doing online research, making you more productive and less likely to be distracted by housework or other things that you could do around your house.

Take a Course--

Much like training and certifications, taking a class can be a good way to keep yourself sharp while unemployed. Especially when you’re between jobs, it can be easy to forget this option, as most courses cost money. Don’t forget the mass of free educational tools online. Keeping your brain sharp can help you stay focused and may even help you learn some new, relevant job skills.

While unemployment numbers are still high, there are many things you can do to better yourself and move forward. While new skills to aid your job hung might seem out of reach, there are plenty of free ways to get ahead, online and off. Additionally, don’t forget that taking time for yourself can do wonders for keeping you productive in your job hunt. While it is a challenge, don’t give up–being unemployed can offer you extra time to better yourself, and possibly grow more qualified to find work.