Projects/Skills to Work on While Job Searching?

Here’s a game plan to stay productive and enhance your resume while job searching, based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Build Technical Skills

• Take online courses in areas relevant to your field. For example:
  • Finance/Consulting: Excel, DCF modeling, or Coursera's Data Science specialization.
  • Strategy/Operations: Strategy classes or capstone projects.
• Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy are great for learning core skills.

2. Work on Personal Projects

• Create a project that aligns with your career goals. For instance:
  • Build a financial model or investment thesis if you're targeting finance roles.
  • Develop a case study or business plan for consulting.
  • Start a blog or portfolio showcasing your expertise in a specific area.

3. Leverage Your Network

• Use WSO and M&I networking guides to connect with industry professionals.
• Reach out to friends, family, or alumni for short-term projects or internships, even unpaid, to gain relevant experience.

4. Volunteer or Freelance

• Offer your skills to local businesses, nonprofits, or startups. For example:
  • Help a family-owned business with financial planning or strategy.
  • Volunteer for roles that align with your career aspirations.

5. Refine Your Resume and Applications

• Tailor your resume for each job application. Create multiple versions targeting different roles.
• Use professional resume review services like WSO's resume help package for insights.

6. Stay Active and Maintain Routine

• Avoid staying indoors all day. Go to a coffee shop or library to job search and study.
• Dedicate a set amount of time daily to job applications and skill-building.

7. Extracurricular Activities

• Join industry-related groups or clubs to expand your network and knowledge.
• Participate in competitions or hackathons to showcase your skills.

8. Stay Positive and Focused

• Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep pushing every day and maintain a positive outlook.

By combining these strategies, you’ll not only stay productive but also make yourself a stronger candidate for future opportunities. Keep at it—success is just around the corner!

Sources: A Guide to Surviving the Recession for New Grads, A Guide to Surviving the Recession for New Grads, From weighing 280 pounds and a 2.5 GPA at a Non-Target, to 200 pounds and an Interview with McKinsey, Navigating the Unemployment Terrain, Navigating the Unemployment Terrain