A couple of weeks ago I started looking at some of the initial things to do as soon as possible after becoming unemployed, and you can review that article HERE. I wish to pick up where that left off and look at the next stage of things to do after becoming unemployed and completing the things advised in part 1 as you start your job search.
The thrust of the discussion in part one was dealing with taking an assessment of where you are financially, to know time limits on money reserves, etc. Now, let us take a look at the issue of actually making some money and increasing your income some while still job searching. There is a general rule that most used to know, but in this day of credit, credit, credit, is often ignored - "Spend less than you earn."
When you are gainfully employed, spending less than you earn is one thing - but when unemployed, it becomes a whole other thing that requires a big adjustment to your lifestyle. It may seem impossible, but if you look really hard and weigh out the "wants" from the "needs" you may find some room to make changes. There are options to be considered aside from just trimming back the unnecessary things - you need to first look at ways you can increase your amount coming in, while still looking for full time employment
Do you have any skills that could be used in a freelance way during this time? Are you a handyman? Do you have mechanical skills? House cleaning? Painting? Web design? Or other such skills that you could use "on the side" for friends, neighbors and others, to make a few dollars? Anything along these lines may be a source of a little extra income during this time.
How about a temporary or seasonal type position? Depending on what time of year it is, you may be able to find some quick temporary work here and there if you look around or apply at temp agencies. Lots of people tend to just want to keep waiting for that permanent job to come their way, but making any kind of money during a time of unemployment is better than making none.
Another option for raising some income is to liquidate some assets. Look around; is it time to sell some of the clutter you have been saving for a rainy day? Do you have potential items worth money that are in your possession? I am not necessarily talking about selling collectibles or hobby items (unless that is something you feel you can do with little to no heartache), but what about just things you could get by without? You may only get a small portion of what you paid for them, but selling enough items that you could get by without, may bring in enough to pad your income long enough.
Speaking of hobbies and collectibles, maybe you have a hobby that could bring in some income; things like making crafts, or wood working, etc. could provide an avenue of income by making and selling items. Basically, take a look at your other skills and see if any of them could be an avenue of income for you.
While these types of options may never replace the potential income you have in your full-time career, the purpose is to find some additional sources of income while you look for that position. If you have any other ideas along this line, won't you please share by commenting below?
Jeff McCormack resides in Virginia Beach, VA. where he works as a web designer by day. In his off time he is a husband, father, mail order book store manager, and musician. Aside from being a freelance writer for this Utilities Jobsite blog, he also seeks to assist in career choices and information by contributing to other Nexxt blog sites.
You Lost Your Job - Now What? - Part 2
-
You Might Also Be Interested In
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!