Like so many others, I’ve recently found myself “out of work” and trying to figure out what to do next. It’s scary and exciting at the same time. It makes you step out of your comfort zone and search out the “real” you. The next question is where to start.
Talk to anyone that will listen. No one is going to know what you’re up to unless you tell them. I’ve talked to government employees, entrepreneurs, private business owners, people in my current field and people that do something completely different.
We’ve talked about what they like and don’t like, and how they got to where they are. Some of these conversations end there, others lead to a whole new group of people to talk to and resources in the community.
Get engaged in things you’re curious about. My newly discovered free time has provided me with an opportunity to attend meetings and events in an area of interest that had nothing to do with my past job.
If you have an inkling of interest in any given area, I urge you to see what’s out there to learn more about it. A whole new world can open up for you by just taking the initiative to seek it out.
Get out of the house. If it’s not to meet people or take in meetings, then it’s to just get out in the community.
Volunteers are needed in all types of roles across HRM, from one-time festivals (such as tall ships) to coming events (2011 Canada Winter Games) or ongoing roles (hospitals and long term care facilities). Many of these organizations couldn’t run without relying on an army of volunteers. It’s a great way to meet people, try out something new and give back to your community.
Keep in touch with friends. Looking for employment can take a toll on your self-esteem. Don’t be ashamed of seeking out an ego boost, we all need one.
For anyone who has a friend looking for work, give them a boost even when they don’t ask for it. I’ve had a lot of people give advice “everything happens for a reason”, but they didn’t stop there. They shared tales of their own struggles.
Through this, I’ve learned that I’m not alone. I want to thank all my amazing friends for standing by me, you’ve made the last few weeks a lot brighter.
In conclusion get out there, get involved and stay active. You’ll never know what’s out there unless you look for it.
Christina Biluk is Director of Engagement for FUSION Halifax. Visit FUSIONHalifax.ca to find out how to get involved in shaping our city; theurbanscrawl@gmail.com.
