Being Unemployed - 6 Free Skills All Unemployed Workers Should Learn

For many unemployed workers, being unemployed is the toughest time of their lives. It seems like being unemployed means dealing with constant pressure - how to pay the bills, where to find another job, and how to keep yourself from falling into the pitfalls of unemployment depression or anxiety.

While being unemployed is only a temporary setback, there are several free skills that all unemployed workers should learn. These 6 skills can help you get through the stress of being unemployed, and they can even come in handy once you get a new job and you're back on your feet:

1. How to create a great portfolio

If nothing else, being unemployed gives you the chance to get all of your professional accomplishments together and create a great portfolio that will make you stand out to future employers. No matter what industry you're in, all unemployed workers should take some time to brainstorm everything that makes you marketable, and what you can bring to the table for a future employer. As an added benefit, a great portfolio will help you years down the road, when you're looking for new job opportunities.

2. How to network

Whether it's impressing someone over the phone, or getting to know people in person, networking is what turns many unemployed workers into gainfully employed professionals. Plus, networking is a skill that will always be vitally important. Even after you get a new job, the right networking can get you an even better opportunity.

3. How to keep your skills sharp

Being unemployed comes with a difficult challenge - how to keep your skills sharp, even though you're not working every day. If you are one of the millions of unemployed workers out there, it is up to you to keep yourself current on news and trends related to our industry. Always be on the lookout for free conferences or cheap classes in your area that can help you stay sharp.

4. How to consolidate debt

It's something that many unemployed workers have never had to deal with before. However, if you talk to your creditors before you fall behind, they will likely be much more willing to work with you. And who knows? Money skills like those may be a valuable asset at your next job!

5. How to be more energy efficient

Being unemployed gives you some time to learn about ways to save money around your home. And, as an added benefit, cutting your energy costs is something that will come in handy once you're gainfully employed again!

6. How to motivate yourself

For many unemployed workers, being unemployed presents them with a challenge to see what they're really made of. To survive being unemployed, you will have to move yourself forward, instead of focusing on the past. You will have to deal with tough situations without crumbling. You may be surprised to find out what you're capable of!

Do you need help moving forward? Many unemployed workers do. That's why FileUnemployment.com was created - to make things a little easier. Whether you need help filing for unemployment, looking for a job, or dealing with the stresses of being unemployed, FileUnemployment.com is your one-stop unemployment resource.