So Quarantine is lasting a little longer than we all expected.
And I know a few months ago I stated how quarantine is not a productivity contest.
And while I still believe this to be true, I also need everyone to recognize that quarantine isn't ending anytime soon.
With the CARES Act money ending and no promise of additional benefits, it's time we buckle down and find a job or purpose to keep us sane until theatre comes back.
Why?
Because you need to pay your rent and consume more than Ramen and alcohol.
Because even if you are coasting on loads of savings and can eat steak every night, you have to be sick of sitting around doing nothing.
Because now (and when we go back), jobs are harder to come by and extremely competitive. (Unfortunately, employers are going to look at what you did in quarantine and if someone has gained more knowledge, they will get the job.)
Also, because think about how exhausting a typical pre-COVID day was- running from gig to gig, interacting with all of the people, and trying to fit in a social life on top of that.
We've been out of our routine for months. Imagine we are told COVID's over and we can all return to "normal" tomorrow.
Would you be ready?
Could you make it through the day without four cups of coffee?
How exhausted would you be?
My primary reason for wanting you to find work or a purpose right now (besides a source of income for food/safety/etc.) is to make it easier on you later.
Adjusting back to society is going to be hard and the stronger you are now-mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and even physically- the easier it will be in the long run.
If you haven't read my blog post on Pivots you should check it by clicking the photo above. That post is a good first step in how to find work or a purpose during this time.
But now we are really digging in.
How to Get a Job Right Now
1. Create and/or update resume, cover letters and LinkedIn.
Prior to COVID, I never had a "real person" resume. I was one of the "lucky ones" who made my income solely on theatre projects. So when I began to look for social media jobs, I determined a new resume was required. I also never saw LinkedIn as a strong networking tool for theatre artists. Sure I had one, but it was never going to get me a job.
So if you are like me and now regretting not having a real world resume or updated LinkedIn page, now is the time to fix it.
I've shared what I've learned about Real World Resumes via IGTV video and you can watch it by clicking the photo Stage Left.
Additionally, I'll be breaking down all of my LinkedIn tips tomorrow on my IG stories so be sure to check it out if you are interested.
And if you are already kick ass and took LinkedIn seriously then give your resume and page a little revamp and some updates.
2. Educate yourself.
Everything I know about social media was learned via the internet or self taught. But when I go to apply for social media jobs, most companies aren't going to accept my not-so-official qualifications.
You have to find a way to get them to notice you.
This means educating yourself as much as possible. If you can afford to get certifications, then great. If you can't- don't sweat it. Watch as many Youtube videos or free online courses as possible.
Hubspot Academy is great and a personal fave (thanks for the recommendation Kort).
The more you know the better.
3. Network.
Go to online trainings. I've made so many new friends and connections via Zoom classes because people are continually showing up and then we connect on social (which then starts a conversation).
Do not overwhelm yourself, but do not underestimate the power of networking (even if it's all digital right now).
4. Communicate.
I wrote about this in my pivot blog post, but don't be afraid to communicate your interest or need for a job. Reach out to friends and your network offering your services.
You will get rejections...but aren't we use to it in theatre?
You only need one yes.
5. Make a schedule and stick to it.
Do not spend hours hunting for jobs. Dedicate some time to it each week or set some goals (i.e. I want to apply for three jobs this week).
If you get obsessive over it, you will get overwhelmed and exhausted. Keep a steady pace and don't give up.
I'm not going to lie to you, finding work is going to be difficult. While you are on this journey to employment- find a purpose. A reason to get up every day and put in the work. It can be because you want to build habits that will prepare you for the other side of this or it can be because you want to make sure you have food for yourself and your cat.
You have to find a why so that even on your hardest days you can keep going.
Much love always,
💜Chels