If you’re out of work now, what part-time or flexible work could you do to fill the gap until you land the job you want? If you’re fully-employed, but concerned about losing your job, what sort of opportunities could you pursue to earn additional income, should the need arise? The “Bridge Job Strategy” is a pragmatic approach to carry you through a difficult employment or financial period. Additionally, it provides the flexibility you need while you continue to search for your ultimate career.
Ford R. Myers, Career Coach, Speaker and Author of “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring,” (John Wiley & Sons, GetTheJobBook.com) suggests six interim options, where job seekers can find work and earn money while continuing to search for the career position they really want:
1. Part-time or temporary job.
Whether it’s in the retail, restaurant, business services or administrative sector, here’s your chance to find a position in a field you genuinely like. If you love the products of a particular store, consider working in retail. If you have a passion for cooking, you might want to be a prep chef at a favorite restaurant. Visit businesses in which you have an interest and contact temporary agencies for additional opportunities.
2. Teaching or substitute teaching.
Experienced professionals are sought after to teach classes and bring a real-world perspective to their students. Contact the administration office of your local school system or the employment office of universities and vocational programs in your area.
3. Consulting or contract assignments.
A growing percentage of the workforce has moved into flexible assignments as consultants or contractors. If you have a background in business operations, customer service, computer/technology, or creative/advertising, these fields naturally lend themselves to consulting or contract work. After the company gets to know you, these consulting or contract assignments may turn into full-time job offers. Identify outsourcing and contract employment firms in the fields that interest you.
4. Work for family or friends.
Do you have relatives or friends who own or run businesses – retail stores, service providers, small manufacturing operations or any other type of company? In tough times, it is important to put your pride aside and ask for help. But in this case, the help would be mutual. Your friend or relative would be the lucky recipient of your services, and you would be gainfully employed, working for someone you already know and like. Contact every friend, relative or acquaintance who owns or runs a business, and ask about their needs and challenges.
5. Home-based work.
With the advent of the Internet and computer technology, it is easier than ever to do real work from home, specifically in the fields of administrative, sales, computers, creative assignments, bookkeeping, and personal services. Ask yourself what skills you have, and offer your services to appropriate companies and families in your area. Contact everyone in your network to offer your services, and ask for referrals after your project has been satisfactorily completed.
6. Odd jobs.
Are you handy around the house? Do you own special equipment or tools? There is always a need for reliable, professional help in the areas of construction, painting, sewing, moving and hauling, yard work, plowing, and more. If you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, you can earn good money providing these greatly-needed services to organizations and individuals.
“One of my senior executive clients worked in a retail store for many months after he was laid off. Having this part-time job gave my client a sense of pride, because he was doing what he could to provide for his family, and he was still making a contribution in the work world. This gentleman saw the ‘Bridge Job Strategy’ as a practical necessity, and it was a very positive experience for him,” says Myers.
For more information and other useful tips for achieving career success, visit http://www.getthejobbook.com .
Reprinted by permission of Ford R. Myers, a nationally-known Career Coach and author of “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring.” Download your free bonuses now at http://www.careerbookbonuses.com.