Blog Post: Are you in a funk, is your job search taking longer than you ever thought was possible? Time for Plan B!

Today in my career-networking group, we discussed “Plan B” jobs -the job you take while you’re waiting for the perfect job to come along. Everyone should have a Plan B if they are unemployed, even if they never have to enact this strategy.

Here are some of the triggers that might lead you to start applying for these types of jobs:

• Do you need money now or will you need money in the near future?  Is your unemployment running out and you don’t want to dig into your 40lK?
• Are you beginning to climb the walls due to lack of social interaction?  Are you tired of talking to your dog and getting no response?
• Are jobs in your current field non-existent due to changing market conditions and you can’t decide what’s next for you?
• Have you worn out your current network and need to build some new connections?
• Do you want to learn some new skills, brush up on computer programs or perhaps take a few baby steps into a completely new field (into non-profit?)?

  THINK PLAN B!!!!!

Unfortunately, too many people become immobilized because of pride.  There are a number of ways to overcome this.  Consider this a temporary break from your career, a nice change from the stress from your previous position, providing you the time to do something for yourself and focus on you.

Here are some examples of “Plan B” jobs that my clients have successfully taken to bridge their transition (names changed to protect privacy):

Barb - a successful social worker (MSW) burnt out from private practice is working for a “nanny service” signing up for the days and hours she wants, while she regenerates her energy and decides on a new focus.

Sara - a successful commercial photographer- turned realtor is currently bartending, making big bucks while she waits for the market to return.

Tim - an attorney, turned multi-media web designer is delivering flowers while he provides care for an aging grandmother and his kids. Says he’s happier than he’s ever been.

Many "Plan B" jobs are part-time in order to leave job seekers time to continue their search. So stop by my networking group at Stella’s Coffee, 1476 S. Pearl St. Denver. We’re there every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. Great support, networking and valuable transition strategies are covered.