Minimizing Time Spent Unemployed

Becoming unemployed, particularly after an extended stay with the same company, can be one of the most frustrating periods in your career. Not only do you have little income coming in, but you have way too much time on your hands to feel redundant and obsolete in the workforce. This makes it all the more important to find your footing and get another job as soon as possible. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.

Take A Vacation

This may sound counter-intuitive, especially since you may have to tighten your budget after losing your job. However, it’s important that you take some time to yourself, even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Being unemployed may be stressful, and so right off the bat, do something to relieve some stress. Taking a vacation will help you put losing your job behind you and recharge your batteries for the upcoming job search.

Touch Base with Everyone You Know

Networking and making contacts can help accelerate your job search, and you should start with contacting everyone you know, just so they know that you’re looking for work. Even if you haven’t been in contact with some people in months or years, catch up with each person over a cup of coffee to expand your network as much as possible. You should also contact your alma mater so you can find help from your alumni base.

Use Job Boards

Job boards like LinkedIn, Monster, and Indeed are more important than ever. Post your resume on several boards, and make sure you include keywords that employers in your field will use in searches. Of course, you also have to conduct your own searches without being afraid to look for jobs that may not be perfect fits. Being unemployed may mean it’s time to be open-minded to opportunities you never thought you’d try.

Connect with Headhunters

Job boards are important, but a significant number of jobs are still found through headhunters and recruiters. Just keep in mind that working with one or two headhunters may not be enough. Headhunters tend to work with specific companies, so there’s no guarantee the one you find will work with a company that’s looking for someone in your field or has your specific skill set.

Consider Self-Employment

One of the fastest ways to cure unemployment is to employ yourself. Obviously, this can be risky and doesn’t guarantee that you’ll end up with the same kind of salary you had before. However, if you have marketable skills, try finding work as an independent contractor. It doesn’t have to be a permanent career move, but it can keep you working, give you a little income, and could lead to something more down the line if you impress potential employers with your work.