How to Make Your Time Productive While You're Unemployed

 Hiring managers tend to be more understanding about unemployment than in years past, since even top talent may find themselves laid off through no fault of their own for economic reasons. However, it is essential that you are able to answer for what you were doing while you were unemployed, especially the longer you are without work. Check out these ways to stay productive while you're unemployed.

1. Temp Work

If any way possible, try to keep your foot in the door of the workforce, even if it isn't a full-time job. Temporary work can be a great way to fill the gap in your resume and demonstrate that your skills are still sharp and in demand – a major concern that hiring managers have about long-term unemployed candidates.

2. Volunteer

While you're looking for paid work, volunteering can help you show hiring managers that you are a hard worker and have taken the initiative to keep yourself active and well-rounded during your bout of unemployment. While you're volunteering, you may get the chance to meet people who could attest to your work ethic and serve as valuable references during your job search.

3. Network

It can be easier to land a job once you let other people know you are looking. They may know of available positions or be able to put in a good word for you with hiring managers in their network. Since you have more spare time while not working, take advantage and use it to reach out to contacts and attend networking events. You'll likely find more valuable sources for job leads than simply perusing job boards at home alone.

4. Learn

Focus on professional development during your down time while unemployed. Is there a fundamental skill you are lacking but have never had the opportunity to focus on, or a certification that could make you a stronger candidate? This is the time to learn something new, while you're not being distracted by the day-to-day tasks of the workplace. You'll also have a great interview response to why the unemployment has actually made you a more qualified candidate.Make your job search more productive and turn to the RPC Company to find your next opportunity. We are a staffing firm that utilizes a personalized approach to match job seekers with the best-suited opportunities with Dallas/Fort Worth area employers. Search our available jobs to get started.