Put Plan B into Action

It's been months since you lost your job and you are frustrated.  Maybe it is time to put "Plan B" into action.

Having a job, any job, usually makes you feel better than facing all the rejection or indifference. 

Having a job gives you something to do.  It provides income. It gives you a sense of worth and value. 

So how do you chose what your "Plan B" job will be? First, you will need to sit down in a quiet place and brainstorm all the things you love, LOVE, to do.  Do not filter out things that might seem unrealistic, silly, or "I can't make money doing this". 

If this is difficult, it should be.  Keep going.  Think of the things you enjoyed doing as a kid.  Think about your favorite job ever.  What was your dream growing up?

Once you've brainstormed, enlist the help of a true friend.  Someone who you trust.  Someone who will not shut your ideas down (A spouse might not be the best person to use at this time in the process, unless your spouse is very open minded and incredibly supportive.)

• Ask this friend to help you identify ways you could get a job in these areas.
• Ask them to help you think of related opportunities. 
• Ask them if they know anyone in these areas.
• Also ask if they know anyone who owns a business.  Any business. Ask if you can talk to that person about getting some help.

Securing a "Plan B" job can take as much time as a real job.  Start today trying to line one up.  Don't send a resume or fill out an application. Call on the phone or stop by in person.  Explain why you want to work there.

It may sound something like:

"I eat at your restaurant pretty regularly and really enjoy the people who work here and the customers who come here.  I love your food and know that I could do a great job representing you.  There's a little extra time in my day and I would like to be doing something worthwhile and make a little money. Is their a shift you might need some help with?"

Don't give up. If they don't seem interested now, they may be later.  Move on, check in with another place that does something similar.

Always convince them that you are interested in working specifically for THEM.  Flatter their large but fragile egos. 

Here are some regional Plan B opportunities that are gearing up right now:

• Landscaping (mowing, raking, yard maintenance)
• Golf courses are gearing up their hiring
• Restaurants
• Garden centers
• Parks and recreation programs
• Summer youth programs/camps need help
• House painting and outdoor maintenance

Here are some other Plan B options that are usually hiring:

• Call center work (customer service, fund raising)
• Office cleaning companies
• Hotel/motel positions

Employers in these organizations want to hire someone who is reliable and will do the work and will stay longer than a couple of weeks. Convince them you have what it takes to do this.  

I know these don't sound like dream jobs.  You might even be angry at me for suggesting these things.  Good.  Come up with some other creative solutions and let me know.  I'll post them here!