If you’re working as a freelancer or are creating your own business, then you’re probably more than familiar with unemployment. Droughts in the working world, a lack of luck and bad timing can all lead to bouts of unemployment and while you’re in the midst of things, it can feel like they will never get any better. Getting through moments like this is all about maintaining a positive mindset and staying productive and by making a few small changes, you can get through any situation. Unemployment may come and go but you can make it a whole lot more painless.
- Talk It Out
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Having nothing to do with your day can have a huge impact on your psychological well being. If you’re starting to feel down about a lack of work, talking to the people around you can help out a huge amount. Often, voicing your fears out loud is the best way to understand them in more detail, letting you begin to find a way out. Even if the person you talk to can’t offer a lasting solution, simply getting out there and getting out of your head will help you to feel a whole lot better.
- Stay Involved
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Even if you’re not working at this moment in time, there’s no reason why you can’t involve yourself in activities relating to your field. Staying up to date on any major changes or developments will make it easier for you when you do get back to work and it might even bring new clients your way. If there are any events going on in your local area, try and get out and go to them. Think of every meeting as an opportunity to encounter potential work. You never know who you might bump into, so don’t be afraid to get out there.
- Volunteer
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If you’re not sure where the next bout of work is going to come from, you can still fill your days with meaningful activities. Volunteering can be a great way to boost your feelings of self esteem and make a positive change during your time. Periods of volunteering will also show a little initiative on your part, filling up any gaps on your resume.
- Network
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When you’re not looking for work or keeping up to date, don’t forget to take an active stance on finding work. If the people aren’t coming to you, go to them and offer your skillset. There are always networking events going on and by attending as many of them as you can, you can expand your professional circle and cast the search further. Jobs aren’t always posted online and by meeting people in person, you can up your chances of finding new work.
- Update Your Resume
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Gaps in employment rarely look good on a resume but if you package yours in the right way, you can present them as positive experiences. When you’re looking for work, try and look into how you can expand on your skill set, learn new tasks and practice diverse activities. Listing how you spent your time when unemployed will set you apart from the rest and show a little initiative. It’s not all about being unemployed; it’s how you handle bouts away from work.
