While rest is crucial for success, and we all need as much as possible in 2020, you might be staring down a much quieter, more solo holiday season than usual.\u00a0This time of\u00a0year\u00a0is\u00a0typically\u00a0full of parties, family\u00a0and rushing to get gifts, and you might normally put a pause in your job hunt\u00a0until January. But with the pandemic still leaving workers unemployed and\u00a0fewer festivities\u00a0on the calendar, now might be the best time to\u00a0get ahead in your job search<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n How to make your job search easy<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Listen, we get it. You\u2019re scrolling endlessly on your phone while stretched out on the couch or in bed, or\u00a0just confirming that yes, you\u2019re still watching, for hours. The good news for you is that\u00a0all of\u00a0your devices can get you hired quickly and easily. Close Instagram for five minutes and\u00a0download job search apps<\/a>(or open a new tab),\u00a0build and save a resume in three easy steps<\/a>, and start applying to jobs in minutes. You can even leave Netflix running in that other tab.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n If you do happen to be traveling, these steps are doable in any amount of downtime you have, from\u00a0waiting in airports to\u00a0riding shotgun on\u00a0a road trip.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Plus, one more thing to endlessly scroll and read:\u00a0salaries for job titles and education levels<\/a>,\u00a0and\u00a0about\u00a0the companies you\u2019re\u00a0applying to.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Focus on your skills<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cTransferable skills\u201d have been growing in popularity for years \u2013 the idea that someone\u2019s\u00a0skills learned\u00a0throughout their career\u00a0can be applied to multiple roles and industries<\/a>. As education\u00a0requirements have changed, along with the natural evolution of businesses and their needs, so has the standard idea of a \u201ccareer ladder.\u201d Now, you\u2019re looking at more of a\u00a0career path<\/a>, with twists and turns. This is\u00a0actually good\u00a0\u2013 you’re not stuck in any industry or path you\u2019re not interested in anymore, and you can bring a fresh perspective to new teams.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n So not only should you consider your existing skills outside of their current application, take this time to identify and learn new skills.\u00a0Throughout quarantine, was there a hobby or interest you mildly indulged? What about focusing on that again in the context of helping you land a new job?<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Online classes or courses through\u00a0Masterclass,\u00a0Udemy,Skillshare\u00a0and more can be free-to-cheap. Check out books (physical or digital) from the library. Setup a professional Instagram account, website or blog to chronicle your learning and show\u00a0off\u00a0your progress.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Give back while still adding to your skills<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Another awesome, free way to expand or improve your skillset? Volunteer. From virtual opportunities to (safe) in-person experiences, there are tons of nonprofits and community groups that need your help. Maybe you\u2019re looking to give back and hone existing skills \u2013 check out causes you care about to see if these organizations need your help. On the flip side, don\u2019t hesitate to jump in and learn something new, especially if it\u2019s for a worthy cause.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Up your professional presence<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Now it\u2019s time to share your new skills, proficiency levels and your progress to show employers you\u2019re serious about your next role. Add your\u00a0skills and expertise to your candidate profile<\/a>\u00a0(still from your couch!), along with your career goals\u00a0and links to your blog or social accounts, and unlock the companies viewing your resume.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Launch a blog on Medium, create an up-to-date portfolio on Instagram or simply\u00a0optimize your job seeker\u00a0profile<\/a>, but\u00a0put yourself out there.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n