In Between Roles? Here’s How to Stay Productive, Organized, and Ready for What’s Next
By Carlanda Jones
Periods between roles can be challenging but are also an opportunity to reflect, regroup, and grow. This time can be used to strengthen your professional skills, expand your network, and reinforce your readiness for your next career move.
Whether you’re looking to level up in your career or pivot in a new direction, here are some practical ways to stay productive, connected, and confident during this time.
Strengthen Your Network
Networking is one of the most powerful tools for career advancement, especially during a transition. Use this time to reconnect with former colleagues and expand your network by joining professional organizations like the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). The groups provide access to valuable resources, events, and opportunities to volunteer and showcase your expertise.
Volunteering for a committee or project is a great way to demonstrate your skills and commitment while staying connected to your field. Attend webinars and professional meetups to stay informed about industry trends and build your visibility.
Invest in Career Coaching and Professional Development
A career coach can be a game changer during your job search. Here’s what a career coach can offer:
- Clarity and Goal Setting: They’ll help you define your goals and determine the steps needed to achieve them.
- Resume and Portfolio Enhancement: A coach can provide tailored feedback to ensure your resume and work samples effectively highlight your expertise and measurable results.
- Interview Preparation: They’ll guide you through mock interviews and offer feedback on your tone, storytelling, messaging, and responses to questions.
- Personal Branding: Career coaches help refine your LinkedIn profile and online presence, ensuring your professional story is consistent and impactful.
If hiring a coach isn’t feasible, affordable options like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and webinars hosted by professional organizations like IABC can offer valuable insights.
Refresh Your Portfolio and Digital Presence
When was the last time you updated your portfolio? Now is the perfect time to review your work samples and showcase your best projects. Include writing samples, presentations, and campaign materials highlighting your strengths in internal communications, external communications (including social media and media relations), crisis messaging, and strategic storytelling.
Organize your portfolio into clearly labeled categories to make finding and presenting relevant work during interviews easy. Don’t forget to update your LinkedIn profile and online portfolio to reflect your most recent accomplishments.
Maintain Your Communication Skills
Strong communication skills are essential in any role, especially for communications professionals. Use this time to keep your writing, presentation, and strategic communication abilities sharp.
- Write Consistently: Whether blogging, contributing to newsletters, or creating content samples, writing regularly helps you maintain clarity and polish.
- Practice Speaking: To refine your presentation skills, participate in groups like Toastmasters or take advantage of online speaking opportunities.
- Tip: Record yourself delivering a short presentation or update—it’s a simple way to evaluate and improve your messaging and delivery, which also helps with interview prep.
Focus on Self-Care and Building Your Confidence
Job searches can be demanding, so prioritizing self-care is essential. Take time to rest and reset so you can approach your job search with energy and focus. Celebrate small wins such as completing an online course or submitting an application.
Keeping a progress journal can boost your confidence and be a useful reference during interviews.
Time between roles offers a unique opportunity to invest in yourself personally and professionally. By focusing on networking, refining your skills, and prioritizing your well-being, you’ll be well-positioned for the next exciting step in your career.
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About the Author: Carlanda Jones is a communications strategist, health and science communication specialist, and versatile content expert. She’s based in the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area.