What to Do In Between Jobs: 23 Ways to Earn Income and Stay Productive
How to fill your wallet and your resume during a career gap.
Finding yourself out of work can feel a little nerve-wracking—it's like hitting the pause button on your career. The good news is that this pause doesn't have to be idle time. If you're wondering what to do in between jobs to help pay the bills and impress future employers, you're in the right place.
This in-between phase can be your golden ticket to learn new skills, dive into side gigs, or even start freelancing—things that not only keep your wallet happy but also bulk up your resume. Employers love seeing candidates who make the most of every situation, and what better way to show that than by being proactive during your downtime?
So, if you’re anxious about what to do in between jobs, read on to find out how to keep yourself busy. By the time your next interview rolls around, you’ll have more than just a paycheck to show for your time—you’ll have valuable skills and experiences that will help set you apart from the crowd.
The Pros and Cons of Being In Between Jobs
If you're unsure of what to do in between jobs, the good news is that there's a lot you can accomplish during this time. Let's explore this phase's positive aspects and challenges and how to make the most of it:
Positives:
Here are some of the benefits of being in between jobs:
- More time for hobbies and passions. One of the best parts about figuring out what to do in between jobs is finally having time to do the things you love. Whether learning an instrument, starting a creative project, or picking up a new hobby, this time allows you to focus on what makes you happy and fulfilled.
- Having quality time with friends and family. Being between jobs allows you to reconnect with loved ones. It's the perfect time to catch up with friends, spend more time with family, and nurture relationships that may have taken a backseat during your busy work life.
- Opportunity for self-improvement. If you're undecided on what to do when you’re out of work, why not focus on personal growth? Whether taking an online course, earning a certification, or working on a passion project, this is a perfect time to add new skills to your toolkit.
Negatives:
Here are some of the challenges of being in between jobs:
- No steady income. While it's true that being in between jobs might strain your finances, this is a great time to explore new ways of making money. Freelancing, gig work, or selling your skills online can keep the bills paid and introduce you to new career paths or side hustles that you may enjoy long-term.
- Uncertainty or stress. Uncertainty about when your next job will come can be stressful, but it's also a time to reflect on your career goals. A little introspection about what to do in between jobs can go a long way in preparing you for your next big opportunity.
- Loss of routine. Without the structure of a job, it's easy to feel unproductive. However, you can create your own routine that works for you! Set daily goals, schedule time for projects and learning, and create a balance between work and relaxation.
Does It Matter If There Is a Gap on Your Resume?
Honestly? You don’t need to stress too much about having a gap between jobs on your resume. Life happens, and recruiters get that!
What they care about most is how you used that time. Did you sit around binge-watching shows? Or did you take the opportunity to learn new skills, volunteer, or pick up freelance gigs? Employers want to know if you stayed proactive and kept moving forward.
If you can show them that you used your downtime to grow or develop—they’ll see that you’re resourceful and motivated. So don’t sweat the resume gap; just make sure you have something interesting to discuss when they ask.
7 Tips on What to Do In Between Jobs
Here are seven practical tips on what to do in between jobs to help you become a standout candidate when you're back on the job market:
- Stick to a schedule. Even without a 9-to-5, maintaining a daily routine keeps you productive. Set specific hours for job hunting, skill development, or personal projects to stay on track and focused.
- Use your network. Don't hesitate to reach out to your network. Let people know you're in between jobs and open to opportunities. Networking can lead to valuable connections, advice, or even your next job.
- Set career goals. Use this time to reflect on what you want in your next role. Set clear, actionable goals—whether that's finding a job in a new industry, earning a certification, or building a specific skill set.
- Improve your skills. Stay competitive by picking up new skills or improving existing ones. Online courses, certifications, or even self-study can give you an edge when applying for jobs and show employers that you've stayed active while figuring out what to do in between jobs.
- Take on freelance or gig work. Wondering how to make money when you’re unemployed? Freelance work and side hustle gigs bring in income and also keep your skills sharp and fill potential resume gaps. Plus, these can lead to new opportunities and experiences that make you more attractive to employers.
- Volunteer or intern. If you're looking to gain experience in a new field or want to give back, volunteering or interning can provide valuable hands-on experience. It also demonstrates initiative and commitment to personal growth.
- Update your resume. Regularly update your resume with new skills, projects, or freelance work. Make sure your professional profiles reflect everything you've accomplished during your time in between jobs so you're ready when the right opportunity comes.
Apply to Related Jobs
23 Ways to Make Money When You’re In Between Jobs
Wondering how to make money in between jobs? We've got you covered. Here are 23 side gigs and ideas that will help you stay productive, boost your income, and enhance your skills:
1. Freelancing. This is an excellent option for filling the gap between jobs if you have writing, graphic design, web development, or marketing skills. Freelance work allows you to connect with clients worldwide, giving you the flexibility to choose the projects that interest you and fit your schedule.
2. Dog walking or pet sitting. If you love animals, you can easily find opportunities to make money by walking dogs or pet sitting. It's not only a steady source of income but also a fun and active way to spend your time.
3. House cleaning. Find house cleaning jobs in your local area. It's a flexible, high-demand gig that allows you to work on your own schedule and set your own rates.
4. Food delivery. Delivering food through services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub is a flexible and easy way to make money. If you're considering what to do in between jobs to keep your finances steady, food delivery offers a way to work on your own terms and get paid promptly.
5. Rideshare driving. If you own a car, driving for Uber or Lyft can be a flexible way to make money while figuring out what to do in between jobs. You choose your schedule and work as much or as little as you like, making it an ideal side hustle.
5. Online Tutoring. Share your expertise by tutoring students online in subjects you excel at. You can set your rates and hours, providing a consistent income stream. Plus, online tutoring is an excellent choice for staying productive while helping others.
7. Virtual assistant. Offer administrative, scheduling, and task-management services remotely as a virtual assistant. This work lets you help businesses or entrepreneurs manage their day-to-day tasks, all while working from the comfort of your home.
8. Sell handmade products. If you have a knack for crafting, selling handmade items online can be a rewarding way to make money. Whether you're making jewelry, candles, or personalized gifts, this creative venture is perfect to keep yourself busy and boost your income.
9. Rent out your space. If you have extra space—a room, an apartment, or parking space—you can rent it out through platforms like Airbnb for short-term stays or Neighbor for storage space. It's a smart way to make passive income while deciding what to do in between jobs.
10. Mystery shopping. Get paid to shop and provide feedback on customer service experiences. Companies hire mystery shoppers through agencies, and it's a simple and enjoyable option that allows you to earn money while doing what you love.
11. Sell items online. If you’re saying, “I can't find a job, and I need money,” start decluttering your home and make money by selling unused items on platforms like eBay or Poshmark. This is an ideal solution for turning unwanted items into cash.
12. Test websites and apps. Companies are always looking for feedback on user experience. By testing websites and apps on platforms like UserTesting, you can make money while helping improve the digital world.
13. Participate in online surveys. While it won't make you rich, participating in online surveys through platforms like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie can provide some quick cash for minimal effort. It's a simple way to pass the time and earn money while determining what to do in between jobs.
14. Rent your car. If you have a car that you don't use often, consider renting it out through services like Turo. It's an easy way to earn passive income while figuring out what to do in between jobs.
15. Grocery delivery. Services like Instacart or Shipt allow you to deliver groceries to customers, providing a flexible side hustle. If you're thinking about how to stay active and make money, grocery delivery is an option that lets you set your own schedule.
16. Sell photography. If you have a talent for photography, sell your images as stock photos on platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Getty Images. This is a great way to generate passive income and a perfect creative outlet.
17. Babysitting. If you enjoy working with children, babysitting or nannying can be a rewarding way to earn money. It's also a fulfilling option connecting you with families needing childcare.
18. Task-based services. Earn money by completing various odd jobs or handyman tasks. This is a practical solution if you enjoy staying busy and being helpful.
19. Create and sell online courses. If you're an expert in a particular field, create and sell online courses on platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Skillshare. This fantastic long-term strategy allows you to share your knowledge and generate income.
20. Rent your equipment. If you own tools, cameras, or other specialized equipment, consider renting them out through platforms like Fat Llama. It's an excellent way to make money while deciding what to do between jobs and not using the equipment yourself.
21. Affiliate marketing. Earn commissions by promoting products or services online through affiliate marketing programs like Amazon Associates. This can be a profitable option, especially if you have a blog or social media presence.
22. Sell digital products. If you’re asking yourself, “How do I earn money without a job?” you can create and sell digital items like printables, e-books, templates, or graphic designs on platforms like Etsy or Shopify. This can become a long-term source of passive income and is a perfect creative outlet.
23. Voiceover work. If you have a clear and engaging voice, consider offering voiceover services for commercials, audiobooks, or video content. You can work with clients worldwide from the comfort of your home.
Find Your Next Gig and Get Back in the Game
Ready to take control of your career and discover what to do in between jobs? Signing up for a free Monster account is the first step! With access to thousands of job listings, side gigs, and freelance opportunities, we make it easy to find the right fit for your skills and schedule. Don’t let this time go to waste—create your profile, upload your resume, and start applying for jobs that can boost your income.