If you're currently out of work, now might be a good time to re-examine your career goals and make some changes -- a big change or a small 'tweak' in your skills inventory...

• Take the initiative to upgrade your skill set
• Take some training
• Go back to school
• Use the internet to learn
• Find a mentor who is currently doing what you want to do
• Practice your communication skills -- both written and verbal
• Research companies who might align with your interests
• If appropriate, find a volunteer opportunity that fits

Being out of work is really scary, but try to take advantage of this unplanned time to help advance your career.

Article by Melanie Holmes, Vice President of World of Work Solutions for Manpower, and courtesy of Manpower's Contemporary Working blog. Melanie shares Manpower's extensive knowledge while building strategic partnerships with government, universities and other leadership organizations across the country. She is also responsible for social responsibility at Manpower, which includes diversity, volunteerism, community involvement, community relations, philanthropy and workforce development.