Guest Article by Craig Brown
How to Move Your Career Forward
When You’re Between Jobs
A lot of people are out of work right now because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s simply a difficult time to run a large business successfully, and many businesses are finding it impossible to meet restrictions and stay open at all. This has led to millions of layoffs and scarce hiring. And economic uncertainties of the future don’t help matters.
If you’ve found yourself jobless, you’re likely trying to think of ways you can stay afloat financially. Fortunately, you have some options to consider—options that will help you make it through these hard times while also benefiting your career in the long term. Below, we’ll discuss turning your hobby into a business, improving your knowledge and skills, and more.
Sell your hobby.
Many of the world’s most successful companies started from an individual‘s passion for a hobby. Maybe you don’t have any desire to start a business, but you can still make money from your hobby as long as you’re good at it! For example, if you love to sew, draw, or build furniture, you could keep doing what you enjoy while also bringing in some extra income for these hard times.
Become an entrepreneur.
Maybe you’re interested in starting a small business. After all, turning your passion into a full-fledged business can provide you with a great opportunity for a fulfilling career—one that feels like you never work a day in your life. Yes, it’s a challenging time for many businesses, but it’s also an opportune time for startups because of low interest rates and better talent pools, among other advantages. Nonetheless, there’s much more to running a successful business than simply using your hobby as a side hustle. Many steps are involved, and it’s essential to understand what they are.
For instance, you’ll need to do market research to ensure that your business idea can bring a profit—locally and/or online. You’ll need to create a detailed business plan that outlines your goals, projections, and strategies for the next several years. And you’ll need to research your funding options, network online and in person, build a team of workers who can help you succeed, and more.
Keep learning.
Whether you plan to start a business or to keep looking for a job in your field, being in between jobs is the perfect time to learn more and improve your skills. Use any free time to research your industry, read career development books, and take online courses. You can even volunteer for a local organization to acquire skills that will benefit you in any line of work you may be interested in. By the way, you can use this time to sharpen your knowledge and skills in your current field or decide to learn something completely new!
Update your wardrobe.
While many people consider the adage “dress for the job you want” to be somewhat outdated, it still holds merit. And a proper wardrobe will be essential in your hunt for a new job or if you plan to start a business. If your business wear could use some updating, now could be the time to make the investment. And no, not on expensive pieces that won’t last. Classic items like a suit, blazer, dress shirts and slacks for men, and for women pantsuits, a blazer, blouses and sweater twin sets can be great additions that will last for years. You can find incredible deals and discounts online through stores like Nordstrom Rack, Macy’s and even Target.
Take a job.
Lastly, don’t shun jobs just because they don’t line up with your ultimate career vision. A job, even a part-time job, means money. And any amount of money can help when you’re between
jobs. So, whether you’re pursuing the perfect job, getting your ducks in a row to launch a business, or are simply in limbo, consider finding part-time work that will improve your financial standing.
If you’re like a lot of other people around the world right now, you're jobless and looking for ways to make ends meet. Remember the tips listed here, and keep researching to find other methods of bringing in income and benefiting your long-term career prospects. Most of all, stay focused and try to keep a positive mindset. You will come through these difficult and uncertain times, and when you do, you'll be stronger and more equipped than ever.
For insight into getting the most out of your job or how to be a more engaged and effective manager, look to the 90-day challenges offered by the Elmore Group, the USE YOUR JOB Challenge or AS ITS PEOPLE Challenge. Get started today!