Are you unemployed and collecting unemployment benefits? If you just answered “yes”, pay attention.
I understand your views of not taking on a position that pays less than your benefits. Sure, I truly get it. Why work and exhaust yourself if the government will pay you more to watch Oprah.
If you plan on taking a break from working to sit around, hang with family, see the sites… you’re in for a rude awakening.
Bottom line:: While you’re sitting around, enjoying that weekly check, your colleagues are getting smarter and stronger. You will very quickly become last choice over someone that has been hustling and pushing forward. They’re skills are more current, they’re more aware of the industry’s latest and greatest news and quite frankly, they have momentum. You know, that special sauce to success.
If you’re going to play this game, I strongly… wait.
I STRONGLY SUGGEST
…you do something to stay active in your industry. Don’t tell me you don’t have an industry. I’m over the excuses. There is always something you can do while you’re unemployed to stay current.
Here are three of the most obvious options::
Volunteer Your Time
Take a few hours a week to make a difference somewhere. Based on where your passions lie, find an activity. This looks good on your resume, fills in the blanks and keeps your mind busy.
Network
Whether it be on LinkedIn or in person, get in the know of who the leaders are in your industry. Get out there and meet them. Become a known resident of your industry and the market. When people are thinking about you, things happen. Stay present
Go To School
An education is one of those things that will benefit you for the rest of your life. Improving yourself through the channel of education is a fantastic way to spend your time. I don’t care if it’s a vocational school, university or art class. If you’re passionate about something, people notice and appreciate it.
If you’re still lost or completely confident your sabbatical makes no effect on your next job search, connect with me. We definitely need to talk. If you want success, you have to work for it. The only success that really matters is the success you work your tail off to earn.
Get out there and EARN it.