When you have lost your job or have graduated with no job in sight, the next step you take is entirely up to you. For many the normal route is to get back to the 9 to 5 as quickly as possible. This of course is not your only choice. From career shifting to career breaks, many people use this time to do something that they have either always wanted to but couldn’t or to do something entirely spontaneous and new. The key thing to remember is that your future is in your hands. The next step? You choose….. There are lots of alternatives to the 9 to 5.
Setting up own business Whether you have just been made redundant or have just graduated, one of the main ways in which you can wholly take control of your future is by starting your own business. Turn your situation into an opportunity.
This can prove to be the most beneficial time to act on that idea that has lain dormant for years or to utilize more fully the skills and experience that you have. Use the time that you have at your disposal to turn that idea into a workable business plan . Become your own boss. The website www.startups.co.uk is an invaluable resource for anyone considering this as their next step.
StudyingAdding to your skills by returning to the academic world can be one of the most fruitful ways to spend your time when not working.
This can be the perfect time to brush up on your language skills or I.T. skills, to embark on a a course which completely changes your career direction or to undertake a hobby course which you have previously not been able to devote sufficient time to. An added bonus is that from a financial point of view, many courses offer reduced or concessionary fees for those who are not working.
Check out www.hotcourses.com for details of courses near you.
Work Options : Part-Time / Temporary / FreelanceWhen securing a full time permanent job is difficult, there are several other options that you should consider when looking for employment.
Why not consider Part Time work? One of the key benefits of working on a Part Time basis is of course the flexibility that it offers – you can work whilst still pursuing other interests and continuing to meet other commitments. If you have previously been in an extremely pressurised role, undertaking a less stressful Part Time position can prove to be the perfect anecdote.
Undertaking Temporary work can be one of the best ways that you can use your time when not working. Firstly, of course it helps improve your income. Secondly, it strengthens your skills and often creates opportunities for you to widen your experience .
Becoming a Freelancer is a worthwhile way of ensuring that you still stay connected with your particular profession and field. Should you be an expert in HR, I.T. or a writer or a photographer, you could potentially develop a career as a Freelancer. You are responsible for how and when you work and you reap your own rewards.
VolunteeringUndertaking voluntary work can be one of the most satisfying and personally rewarding ways to spend your new found free time.
Not only can it provide you with the opportunity to develop new skills, meet new people and gain more experience, it also is good for you! It will help boost your self esteem, particularly if you have recently lost your job ; it will help you regain confidence should that have taken a knock through you not working and it and will will help improve your mindset. For volunteering opportunities near you, check out www.do-it.org.uk
TravellingShould personal and financial circumstances allow, travelling can prove to be one of the most positive ways to spend your time when not working. Increasing numbers of people are using this time almost like a career break – with “Gap Year” trips planned funded entirely by redundancy payouts. There may be an opportunity to work while you are travelling or to do voluntary work – all things which will further strengthen both your skills and your mindset.
So whether you are planning your trip or looking for inspiration from someone who has already done so, visit www.gapyear.com for all your travel related queries.
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Posted by online spelletjes | September 13, 2011, 2:04 pmI found this insightful and extremely encouraging, redundancy can be turned into a positive experience and hats off to you for trying to do this!
Good luck
Posted by robert fullerton | September 14, 2011, 6:05 pmHi there Robert,
Thank you for your comments, your feedback is very appreciated and keep an eye out for further posts and developments down the line!
Regards
TheEmployable
Posted by theemployable | September 14, 2011, 8:27 pm