So you’re unemployed. You probably feel hopeless, frustrated, and maybe even angry. You (along with the millions of other unemployed Americans) seem to spend the majority of your time scouring the Internet for job postings, tweaking and sending out your resume, attending job fairs, and just about any other activity related to finding a job. And while these activities are all productive and something you should certainly spend time on, your job search isn’t the only thing you should focus your attention to. 
Especially if you’ve been unemployed for awhile, any potential employer will want to know what you’ve been doing with yourself. And if you say you’ve spent all your time looking for a job, they’ll wonder why you’re still unemployed and become skeptical of taking a chance on you. That’s why it’s important to be as productive as you can in your new found free time. Here are a few tips for being productive outside of your job search that will ultimately help you better your employment opportunities:
1. Volunteer. You get much more out of volunteering than another line to add to your resume. When you volunteer, you’ll not only be bettering your community, you’ll likely be working with people who are very involved in the community and therefore probably have the connections that could lead you to your next job. Of course, don’t just volunteer for the sole purpose of meeting people who could serve as professional contacts, but think of it as an added bonus. To make your volunteer time even more productive, help with tasks that will be most relevant in the field you want to work in.
2. Get a part time job. Looking for a job doesn’t pay the bills. Don’t get in the mindset that getting a part time job to hold you over until you find something permanent is beneath you. A part time job will keep you busy and force you to meet new people, learn new things, and broaden your horizons.
3. Create an online store. Get in touch with your inner entrepreneur and start an online business focused whatever interests you. With websites like Shopify, Etsy, and many more, it won’t require much time or money on your end, but you’ll still get a lot of hands on business experience.
4. Keep learning. Stay current on the changes and advancements happening within your field. Just because you’re unemployed doesn’t mean you have to be completely out of the loop. Read articles, attend webinars, or take classes that are relevant to you. Also, if there’s anything you’ve ever wanted to learn but never had the time, now’s your chance! Employers like to see people who have a current and wide range of skills and knowledge.
5. Network. You hear all the time how important networking is, but that’s because it’s true! Get in touch with your professional contacts and invest time into building new connections. You’re much more likely to land a job from a referral than from a job board or career site.
What other advice do you have for staying productive while unemployed?
