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In Between Jobs? Make Your Time Work for You

At one time or another we've all been downsized, right sized, reorganized, re-engineered, or just plain fired. Often, those who have just been terminated find themselves in a stupor, not knowing what to do with their time or how to begin picking up the pieces. It can be a frightening time that challenges an individual's resilience and self-esteem. If you or someone you know is unemployed, you can get unstuck and start moving toward a new job - or even a new career. The first step, however, is to accept what has happened and let go of any negative thoughts about your circumstances. Negativity is difficult to camouflage, and now is the time to put your best face forward. Following are "Dr. Debra's Rules" for the recently unemployed. Follow them and you just might find a terrific opportunity where you least expect it. Rule #1: Get out of the house. Don't sit in front of the computer (or, heaven forbid, the TV) day after day and expect your next job to find you. Scour every newspaper and magazine and attend as many networking functions and seminars as you possibly can. (The Business Journal posts a comprehensive listing of these events in every issue.) Don't be shy about networking just because you're temporarily without a fancy title and business card. You are still an expert in your field and no less of a professional because of your current lack of organizational affiliation. Get out of the house to clear your brain, as well. Take a walk, go hiking, or ride your bike. Solitary exercise provides opportunities for brainstorming, reflection, and stress reduction, and is an important investment in your overall wellness. Rule #2: Ask for help. Yes, people really do enjoy helping others and are flattered to be asked for their advice. Comb through your Rolodex and get re-connected with those whom you haven't seen in awhile. They may know of employment opportunities or other contacts who could be helpful to you. Ask those in your sphere of influence to provide their perceptions of you on a variety of levels. Do they have a clear understanding of your personal brand and your offerings? Do they perceive you to be an adroit communicator, polished dresser, and savvy business person? Listen carefully for any possible areas in which you might want to beef up your skills and assets. This feedback is invaluable, and could mean the difference between a cubicle and a corner office. Rule #3: Give and Yee Shall Get. For many of my clients, volunteering provides opportunities for meaningful interaction and contribution, and often opens up a whole new world of employment possibilities. One client who had been laid off from a stressful advertising job began volunteering in a hospital and was soon hired as their director of volunteer services. Another client who had been working in the restaurant business decided to pursue a non-paid internship at a TV station in her city and now anchors the weekend news. And another client, an out-of-work physician, began volunteering at a prison and found a new calling providing health care to inmates. His unique career has allowed him to pen books and magazine articles, and be interviewed on several talk radio shows. At the very least, volunteering provides current and valid work experience for your résumé, and offers plentiful opportunities for making new contacts, honing skills, and learning new ones. Rule #4: Get to Work. Just because you're not going to a job every day doesn't mean you're not working. Your employment search is now your full-time job. It begins at 8 and ends at 5. Start your day with a networking breakfast - it's a great way to market yourself. Follow early morning meetings with phone calls, résumé mailings, or a couple of hours volunteering. Take a workshop in the afternoon or arrange to meet with new contacts. At 5PM, map out the next day's strategy, including follow up calls, thank you notes, Internet research, perusal of local and national business and industry publications, and networking events. Be sure to stay up-to-date on trends and current issues in your field so that you maintain your professional edge and desirability.

Debra Davenport, PhD, is a Master Professional Mentor and the president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm with offices in Los Angeles and Phoenix that mentors entrepreneurs and professionals. She is the creator of the Certified Professional Mentor® designation and certification program and the author of The Ten Commitments of Highly Successful People. debra@davenportfolio.com or (866) 232-6492.

 

 

     

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