Statistically speaking, there are 6.3 job applicants for every job opening in the U.S. Anecdotally speaking from recruiters, many companies are receiving hundreds of applications per job opening. Regardless of the numbers, the right fit for each talented professional may not surface for some time.
This past week, I received an email from a job seeker in California. Theresa has been out of work for a year and questions whether it makes sense to take a much lower level position because of the long term implications on her career.
Theresa inspired me to write an article titled “Should You Stay Unemployed?”
My primary advice to Theresa is to pursue freelance opportunities in the interim. The purpose of this article for Career Rocketeer is to outline 10 ways to create work when there’s no work.
To learn more about Theresa’s story and to share in the discussion, please reference the other article on my blog.
So if freelance work is something you’re considering (even on a temporary basis), here are ten suggestions for getting started:
1. Know Your Value Proposition and Goals
Before you start hitting the pavement, make sure you have clarity on what it is can do for others. Stated simply, what value do you bring? For example, Tommy Rollins lost his job at Circuit City when the company went bankrupt. While between jobs, he set out to manage online marketing sweepstakes for small businesses. His story ended up in the Wall Street Journal.
2. Get Involved with Local Professional Associations
Professional associations are ideal organizations to meet other professionals in your field of expertise. Most associations have local chapters and activities throughout each month. Don't just join your local chapter. Take a leadership role and get involved with a project.
3. Contact Friends and Colleagues
When it comes to networking, always start with the people you already know. Don't reach out to friends necessarily as prospective clients. Instead, recognize these people are your best source for referrals. Don't be surprised when you realize how quickly they can put you in touch with the right person. Be sure to look for ways to return the favor to someone else in need, or to take the initiative and pay it forward.
4. Attend Networking Events as a Problem Solver
When you go to networking events, don't go explicitly seeking a job or a new client. Instead, go with the goal of identifying at least three needs of people you do not know, and then connect them with someone else. Your good deed will not be forgotten by either party.
5. Organize Networking Events Yourself
If you want to really expand your network fast, organize an event or group yourself. You will be recognized as a connector in the business community which will lead more people to you.
6. Target Small Businesses in Your Area
Small businesses especially start ups are desperate for project help. Not sure where to start? Contact your local chamber of commerce or locate a LinkedIn group in your area that caters to start ups.
7. Volunteer for Non-Profit Organizations
Like small businesses, non-profit organizations are always short on resources. Focus on project opportunities that are aligned with your goals and expertise. Once when I was out of work, I led a project for the YMCA which looked great on my resume and established a long term professional relationship with the Executive Director.
8. Start Your Own Association or Group
Don’t see an association or group in your area that fits your career goals or interests? Then start one yourself. Lisa Sullivan in North Carolina did.
9. Become a Voice for Your Field
A smart and easy way to maintain and promote your expertise is to contribute content via a blog or other source of information. For example, Daulton West volunteers his time as a regular and valuable social media contributor for Examiner.com.
10. Learn to Be a Giver First
Whether you are seeking freelance or full time work, be sure to make a commitment to a lifetime of learning. Here are three books I highly recommend for networking and selling the right way:
- The Go-Giver & Go-Givers Sell More by Bob Burg and John David Mann
- Networking Like a Pro by Ivan Misner
- The Power of Who: You Already Know Everyone You Need to Know by Bob Beaudine
What suggestions do you have for creating new opportunities?
Author:
Brent Peterson, PMP, MS, MBA, is the founder of Interview Angel Inc, a company that offers a comprehensive guide and toolkit for job seekers to use in interviews. Interview Angel is in use at universities, corporations, non-profit agencies, and local governments. Discover customer testimonials, blog posts, upcoming events, and media interviews at http://www.interviewangel.com/. Brent is also on Twitter (@InterviewAngel).
