How to Build a Resume While Unemployed

So, you are out of work and desperate for a job. Sadly, there are thousands of other qualified applicants competing for the same positions. How can you set yourself apart from the pack? Focus on building your resume. Employers will want to know what you've done in the past and how you are using your time while unemployed.

Instructions

How to Build a Resume While Unemployed

1. Get to work. It's easy to lay around watching soaps all day, but it's not productive. Act as though your job hunt is your job. Get up early, dress up, and stick to a schedule.

2. Job shadow. This is when you follow someone around to learn how they do their job. It is an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and get advice from a professional in the business you hope to break into. Include these experiences in the "internship" or "education" portion.

3. Volunteer. Find a worthy organization that needs your help a few hours each week. Not only will it show your employer that you care about the community-- it will help you hone your communication skills. You will want to mention what you have learned in these experiences on your resume under the "community" or "volunteering" section.

4. Participate on a committee or board. This will help you learn how to work on a team to achieve a greater goal. Often, you will be expected to plan events or participate in discussion groups. The work you do on a committee could help you build the "experience" portion of your resume.

5. Take a class. You don't have to shell out thousands of dollars to go back to school. Just find a class where you can learn a new skill. Many organizations offer free or discounted courses. You could learn a new language, brush up on math, or take a computer class. List your classes under the "education" section.

6. Start a blog. No matter what job you're going for, writing skills are a plus. And it's becoming more important to use the Internet. You don't have to blog about your job hunt. You could use your blog to talk about your volunteering experience, your kids, or favorite vacation spots.

7. Get recommendations. Even though you hope your references will say something nice when an employer calls, having a few recommendations at hand will certainly help. An employer can skim through these small notes and get a greater understanding about your skills and your work ethic.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to post your resume on a career website and update it each time you add a new skill.

• If you plan to blog, or participate in a social network, make sure you post positive information about previous employers. You will also want to steer clear of controversial and political remarks.

Resources

• LinkedIn
• Forbes Layoff Lessons