7 productive ways to spend your time when jobless

Whether you’ve recently graduated from school and are looking for a job or you are in between jobs, there are lots of things to do while jobless. Here are 7 ways to be more productive with your time.

Of course, your primary objective while jobless is to find other employment. Being unemployed is a stressful and difficult time, so it’s important to job hunt as much as you can to secure your next job. But apart from just looking for work, here are a few other things that are just as essential.

Being unemployed means you suddenly have a lot more time available to you.

• Doing something beneficial with this time will lift your spirits, while also allowing you to job hunt more productively at home in a cleaner, more organized environment.

This is a great opportunity to catch up with your loved ones.

• Not only can they provide you with emotional support during this difficult time, they can even be a source of networking. You never know where your next job can come from!

If you have a marketable skill, consider picking up some freelance work while you’re between jobs.

• It can be a source of income and give you something productive to do to fill your time. It’s easy to build a simple website or post your ad on an online job board.
• Just make sure that your freelance earnings don't affect any Employment Insurance (EI) benefits you may be receiving, or are entitled to receive. Check the Government of Canada website for further information if you have any questions.

When you’re busy with work, it can be difficult to find time to do the things you’re passionate about, too.

• See the silver lining in unemployment and finally have time to do what you love, whether that’s painting, playing an instrument, participating in a sport, and more.

Before you start job hunting in earnest, it’s important that your resume is updated to reflect your most recent position and skill set.

• A stronger, more experienced resume will be an asset to you in the job hunt process, as will a great cover letter and a website showcasing your work, if applicable to your field.

Consider job hunting a full-time job.

• Put the necessary time and effort in, and scour the internet for job postings daily, including various job board and networking websites.
• Don’t forget to also network in person, show up to industry events, and check the paper. Your dream job may be just around the corner!

If you’re lucky, you should be able to snag a few job interviews during this time. Make the most of them by doing your best!

• Dress well, show up on time, be polite, and rehearse what you’re going to say in advance.

Now’s your time to impress your future boss!