Looking for a job in 2020 is a whole new level of difficulty. Companies are going on a hiring freeze, openings are hard to find, and job connections are being made virtually. As a college student, I’ve had a difficult time finding a job in a town filled to the brim with students trying to make money. While trying to build a resume, make money to sustain yourself, and juggle schoolwork getting rejected isn’t easy to deal with. Here are a few things you should do if you find yourself unemployed.
1. Don’t stop looking.
Whatever you do, do not stop looking for a job. I know it can feel impossible and even helpless, but a job will come your way when it’s meant to be. There is only one thing for sure, and that’s that you can’t find a job if you aren’t looking for one.
2. Find another way to make money.
If you are seriously in a bind and there is no job in sight, it may be time to look at your other options. Housesitting, babysitting, or dog walking can be a great way to make money. Are you good at a specific skill or have a certain talent? Try selling a service or product. Who knows it could open a lot of doors you didn’t even know were there.
3. Work hard even on days off.
Waking up late, feeling lazy, and being unproductive can lead to a terrible pattern. If you’re anything like me, getting yourself out of bed and being productive is a great way to have a better attitude and a good mindset.
4. Reach out to connections.
One helpful way to get a job is to reach out to friends, family, and other connections. If you have someone in the field you’re searching for, ask if they know of any opportunities. This can open so many doors that you wouldn’t have otherwise had if you wouldn’t have asked.
LinkedIn, Indeed, and other platforms are extremely helpful when trying to make a positive, professional profile. These platforms and many others can make finding a job a lot easier. Not only will you have a professional presence, but you will have access to more jobs.
6. Watch your spending.
If you don’t have income, it is probably smart to keep an eye on how much money you’re spending. Being financially conservative will make you feel better about being unemployed and will allow you to keep from going underwater.
An amazing aspect of being a college student is having access to an advisor to help you in these situations. Oftentimes an advisor, or even a professor, may be willing to help you look for a job opportunity that would allow you to build your own business. This is extremely helpful because it will allow you to look for options within your field.
8. Call local shops and businesses.
While searching online is extremely helpful, personally calling business is a direct way to look for jobs. Making a phone call to ask about opportunities is an extra step many people won’t normally take. Depending on COVID-19 guidelines within your state, you can even walk into a business to ask about possible opportunities.
No matter what you do, you have to follow the things that make you happy. Your passion, or lack thereof, will show in an interview or even a phone call. You are more likely to be employed if you show your passion for the business or service you would be doing. Make sure to follow what you love, and success will be soon to follow.
10. Stay positive.
I know it’s difficult to keep your head up, but it’s important to remember that you will end up exactly where you need to be. Whether that’s babysitting for a neighbor, working at a boutique, writing for a newspaper, or something you’ve never thought of, it will all work out in the end. Keep your head up, don’t give up, and follow your passions. You can do it!