22 Aug
Life is difficult – the first three words of the 1970’s classic, the Road Less Traveled, and those of us who have experienced the insecurity and fears that often come with being unemployed, would be inclined to agree.
Unemployment can try even the most resilient, so if you’re not enjoying your new or not so new found freedom, you’re not alone, in fact you’re far from alone, with 6.4% of the Irish population currently out of work, at last count.
You might be living week to week, really struggling to make ends meet or just watching your bank balance dwindle – along with your self-esteem, so at times like these, it’s all too easy to fall prey to negative thinking. Read on for tips on how you can make unemployment work for you, writes HEATHER HAMILTON, CAREER ADVISER, TRUEYOU CAREER.
The grass is always greener on the other side
A time-worn cliché but true nonetheless. Financial concerns aside, how much happier were you in your nine to five than you are now, possibly still in your pyjamas – while outside the world is battling to be on time for someone whose profile picture they frequently use as a dartboard? An extreme example perhaps, but authority has been known to have that effect on people. Use this time to be honest with yourself and ask, what is it you really want?
Difficult feelings – does exactly what it says on the tin
Unemployment means time on your hands, lots and lots of time. So what you do with your time is important. Learning to love your own company can be the first step in getting to know who you are and what you want, however, it can also bring up some difficult feelings.
Ask for support if you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to your GP, look into low or no cost counselling or get in touch with ReachOut.com. Know that these feelings will pass and above all, take good care of yourself during this time.
The ‘What do you do?’ question
Now that you’re unemployed, it may seem like suddenly the world and his dog wants to know what you do. Rather than listing your favourite YouTube channels, use any opportunity to network and explore the hidden job market where it is estimated, a staggering 70% of jobs are not advertised.
You could mention you are investigating your options on Freelancer.com, Upwork or PeoplePerHour.com and looking to negotiate a contract with an international company. Freelance work can help pay your bills while you search for your dream job, learn new skills, boost your confidence as well as building your CV for potential employers.
The ‘What do you love to do?’ question
It can feel like you’ve entered into some kind of weird twilight zone when you become unemployed, however most people are now faced with the challenge of changing careers many times in their lifetime. Our skills and interests also evolve, so chances are, so too will your career. Finding out where your motivation lies is the key and now is the time to explore all avenues. ‘What do you love to do?’ is the question that really needs to be asked.
Look at where you spend your free time. We are most content when our mind is occupied doing something we enjoy, so when hours seem like minutes, that is a good indicator. The free Interest Profiler test on CareersPortal.ie can help you identify your interests and match them to career or study options.
Consider returning to education
Now might be a good time to take a part-time course you’ve always wanted to try. An evening class in your local College of Further Education will give your week structure and is often very affordable with reduced rates for the unemployed.
Or perhaps you might consider returning to education full-time? There has never been a better time with ever-increasing opportunities available for those wishing to upskill which need not require a great deal of financial investment. Check out courses on Qualifax.ie and use the Eligibility Reckoner on SUSI.ie (Student Universal Support Ireland) to see if you would qualify for a grant.
The Springboard initiative in higher education also offers free courses at certificate, degree and masters level leading to qualifications in areas where there are employment opportunities. Have a look at their programmes on Springboardcourses.ie for free training if you have been unemployed for more than a year.
Consider starting your own business
Or what about starting your own business? A Start Your Own Business course is a great way to test the waters, and could be the first step in turning what you ‘love doing’ into ‘what you do’. Check SOLAS.ie or LocalEnterprise.ie for upcoming Start Your Own Business programmes and other courses running in your area.
Final thought – volunteering can be a great way to bridge gaps in your CV, network or take your career in a different direction. Contact Volunteer Ireland for a wide range of organisations that actively recruit volunteers.
It’s okay if you don’t have a plan
All that being said, it’s okay if you don’t have a plan right now. Career theorist, John Krumboltz’s ‘planned happenstance’ theory states indecision is actually desirable. Indecision, the theory holds, allows for the opportunity to benefit from unplanned events in a rapidly changing labour market, and in the wake of Covid-19, this theory is all the more relevant.
Central to Krumboltz’s theory is the fact that unpredictable social and environmental factors will be important influences in our lives. Learning to manage life transitions and accept the limited control we have over work experience is an essential career management skill, and looking back most of us can see how chance events may have been the most important influences in our lives.
Unplanned events lead to good careers
What is important argues Krumboltz, is the curiosity to explore learning opportunities, persistence to deal with obstacles and the flexibility to approach a variety of circumstances with optimism so you can benefit from the unplanned events which often lead to good careers.
Krumboltz states that it is people with these qualities that are more likely to capitalise on chance events and turn serendipity into opportunity.
So, if you’re unemployed at the moment, you’re not sure where you’re going, but you’re open to what the future may bring and exploring all your options – rest assured, according to Krumboltz theory, you’re on the right track.
Heather Hamilton is an independent career adviser with an Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC) recognised qualification in career guidance. If you would like to explore your employment, education or training options, get in touch to discuss your career goals or book your consultation.