Quitting before COVID
I quit my job in February to prepare for a transition/ career change from the service industry to public relations. Because I worked in the service industry since college and after (thanks to its flexible hours), I was not afforded the opportunities to intern at firms or jobs in the PR firm. So jumping to something I've never done professionally was daunting. To ease the anxiety, I planned for a 3 month sabbatical with life-coach guidance for this transition and planned to make most of my connections during SXSW- which was cancelled due to COVID, and now all my ideas for places to apply either no longer exist or won't for a long while. I doubt I qualify for unemployment since I quit on my own volition. My savings have run out, and cut guidance to save money. Can Unemployment help me out while I start again? #advice #benefits #texas
Hi @M. Stella Garcia , in a perfect world, a comprehensive unemployment assistance program would include career transition support to encourage workers to pursue more fulfilling occupations where they can become influential industry contributors and thrive economically.
The unemployment assistance programs we have today don't allow much room for such instances. Each state is different but the general consensus around a volunteer separation of employment decision for employees only goes as far to support those that are made under “good cause” like dangerous work environment, harassment, or discrimination. Don't get discouraged - get well-informed instead!
Double check your states department of labor website and verify is your status verifies as a claim. Go beyond your decision to quit and find out is you qualify under pandemic/COVID-19 assistance.
Employment opportunities within the Public Relations industry may have been negatively affected or limed post pandemic but explore other options. @Elyssa Duncan offers some excellent suggestions within her response. Look for roles that will allow you to get your foot in the door among companies that have PR departments that meet your future career interests. The key is to develop an insider employee relationship that will put you in a better position to pursue PR job opportunities when they become available.
Don't leave out temp agency work assignments. A lot of companies turn to temp workforce options to fill in-demand job roles with less costs. A good temp agency might have a temp PR work assignment in your area. Stay Encouraged!
Hi @M. Stella Garcia! I made that exact career shift post-college. I worked in the hospitality industry throughout HS and college (I still do, part-time!)
I totally understand your inability to intern due to financial barriers, I faced a similar dilemma. It's a tough position to be in, for sure.
Don't stress too much, PR is a SUPER flexible degree, so keep that in mind!! :) Could you try and do some freelance work? Maybe take a look at Fiverr or Upwork. This wouldn't be a forever job, but could provide some extra income while we wait for companies to open back up. You can also look into customer service roles, sales or retail management!
I did something similar, Without the education Haha,I was in a restaurant making peanuts w/o a raise for 3 years an thought to open a car business, and quit my job,It took me one class out of 3 required classes to figure out I was in WAYYYYY Over my head!! There was No Way I could do it with No experience,So began a year of not finding a job and running out of $$,So with what's Left on my cards I'm starting a cleaning business.Even with a MUCH easier business there's A Lot more to it then you would think,I can't get unemployment and Wasn't looking forward to Spending my life in some dreary manufacturing env.looking at the clock all day just to be able to BARELY pay the bills(If at all) so I'm trying This! :)