Last updated on Jun 28, 2024

Here's how you can enhance your skills and broaden your knowledge while unemployed after a layoff.

Losing your job can be a challenging experience, but it also presents an opportunity to enhance your skills and broaden your knowledge, especially when it comes to making a social impact. While it may feel like a setback, this period of unemployment can be a time for personal growth and professional development. By taking proactive steps, you can emerge from this phase more equipped and prepared for new opportunities. Whether it's learning new skills, volunteering, or networking, there are numerous ways to stay productive and positive during this time.

1 Online Courses

Taking online courses is an excellent way to keep your mind engaged and learn new skills that can make you more marketable. Many platforms offer free or low-cost courses in a variety of fields including social impact, project management, and digital marketing. Not only do these courses allow you to expand your expertise, but they also provide certificates upon completion that can bolster your resume. This self-paced learning can fill gaps in your knowledge and open doors to careers you may not have previously considered.

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Mara Waern

Employment Consultant at Canadian Hearing Services
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You are always seeking ways to improve your position for that next interview. You can volunteer with a service group like the Lions or Knights of Columbus - it is a great way to also network with people in your community. Taking free courses that updates your credentials is always beneficial to making your resume appear that you are current (there are lots of free course out there). If you have a few employers that are key in your search, really look at their webpage to see what their corporate values are.

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Joseph Tenzin Oliver

‘The Environmental Trailblazer’ — British Broadcasting Corporation (Awakened Action informed by Nature, Technology and Compassion)
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Online learning has been one of the most impactful and yet almost silent revolutions in learning. I've completed several post-graduates and short courses online. I even completed a year-long masters level training in the history of money which was free. What a positive way to level up your understanding and skills. Sign up to one today!

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2 Volunteer Work

Volunteering is a powerful way to contribute to your community while developing new skills. Look for organizations that align with your values and offer opportunities to work on projects that can enhance your skill set. Not only does volunteering offer practical experience, but it also demonstrates to future employers your commitment to social causes and your ability to take initiative during difficult times. Additionally, it's a great way to meet new people and expand your professional network.

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Joseph Tenzin Oliver

‘The Environmental Trailblazer’ — British Broadcasting Corporation (Awakened Action informed by Nature, Technology and Compassion)
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Volunteering is a great way to understand yourself on a deeper level whilst also providing support to the local community or cause that is close to your heart. I've spent a lot of time volunteering my time, my skills and my energy to a variety of projects, initiatives and organisations that make a difference to this world we live in. Its a great way to level up your experience in topics and sectors which interest you too. Get started and reach out if you want to identify a good place to offer your time and energy.

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3 Networking Events

Attending networking events, even virtually, can connect you with industry professionals and peers who can offer support and advice. These events are often free and can provide insights into current market trends and job opportunities. Networking can also lead to mentorship opportunities, which can be invaluable when navigating a career transition. Remember to approach these events with an open mind and be ready to share your experiences and goals.

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Joseph Tenzin Oliver

‘The Environmental Trailblazer’ — British Broadcasting Corporation (Awakened Action informed by Nature, Technology and Compassion)
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Networking events are a brilliant way to meet new people who are interested in the same topics as you. With a few hours you can meet and talk to dozens of people in a specific field of interest and share your story too. Highly recommend doing this every month to keep fresh energy coming into your work life. Why not even set up an event yourself, on a topic you love.

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4 Freelance Gigs

Consider taking on freelance work or short-term projects. This not only helps to mitigate financial stress but also keeps your skills sharp and your portfolio current. Freelancing can also lead to full-time job offers if you impress your clients. Platforms dedicated to freelancers can help you find projects that match your skill set, allowing you to work from anywhere at your own pace.

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5 Personal Projects

Initiating personal projects can be a rewarding way to apply your skills to something you're passionate about. Whether it's starting a blog, developing a community program, or creating an online portfolio, these projects can serve as practical examples of your capabilities. Personal projects show potential employers that you are self-motivated and capable of seeing complex tasks through to completion.

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Joseph Tenzin Oliver

‘The Environmental Trailblazer’ — British Broadcasting Corporation (Awakened Action informed by Nature, Technology and Compassion)
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There's nothing like making your own idea come to life. Sometimes it can take years, other times its a day that you needed to put aside, regardless of the time dedicated, its important to always make time for the projects close to your heart.

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6 Skill Assessment

Finally, take the time to conduct a thorough skill assessment. Identify your strengths and weaknesses and consider how they align with your career goals. This self-reflection can help you focus on what skills to develop during your unemployment. Understanding the competencies required in your desired field will guide you in choosing the most relevant courses and experiences to pursue.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Social Impact

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Here's how you can enhance your skills and broaden your knowledge while unemployed after a layoff.

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1 Online Courses

2 Volunteer Work

3 Networking Events

4 Freelance Gigs

5 Personal Projects

6 Skill Assessment

7 Here’s what else to consider

Social Impact

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Here's how you can enhance your skills and broaden your knowledge while unemployed after a layoff.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Online Courses

2 Volunteer Work

3 Networking Events

4 Freelance Gigs

5 Personal Projects

6 Skill Assessment

7 Here’s what else to consider

Social Impact

Rate this article

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