It’s been 10 years since I was unemployed last and WOW how things have changed since then.  When I was unemployed last the only real tool you needed was your paper resume, of course having a network was great also.

Now that seems to be just the very basics to start your search.  While I was at my previous position I created a LinkedIn account , which for the employed or unemployed is a great networking tool. I now also have my website and my new business cards.  Some of my friends and family that I tell how things have changed are as amazed as I first was when the reality hit me.

There are many things that I have done differently in this job search then what I did the last time I was going through this.

• Grow Your Skills  – I found out about Ladies Learning Code and I decided to take one course to see if I liked it. I had been wanting to learn coding for awhile and thought this would be a good time to do so.  I really enjoyed the HTML and CSS, so I took more courses including WordPress, Java Script, and Intro to Graphic Design.

I know one of my weaker skills is bookkeeping and I noticed a number of postings I was interested in mentioned having at least basic skills.  I registered for a bookkeeping course at Mohawk College through their Distance Education program.  I now have taken 2 of 3 bookkeeping courses that after I complete all 3 I will receive a certificate.

During some of my interviews many people mentioned that they are impressed with the courses I have taken especially during this time of unemployment.

• Grow Your Network – I know networking can be difficult for some people but it does help.  I have never been big on networking but I have grown to appreciate the value in it and become much more comfortable with it.  Now that I have my business cards I am looking forward to the next event I can get out to.

• Take Advantage of Services Available – Being unemployed can feel like you are all alone.  You don’t have to be.  There are many different services, some research maybe needed and questions asked to discover them. Use whatever services and/or connections possible to help.  I went to Path Employment, as they had helped me in the past and they also told me about other services that weren’t around last time I need them.

• Taking Time to Enjoy Life – A job search is a full time job along with family, friends and everything else in one’s life. It can also be a very stressful time but remember to take a break every once in a while and enjoy life.

These are just some of the things I have learned this time while I have been unemployed.