Putting your tax refund to work
Tax refunds in as little as 8 days from H&R Block At Home online
Many of us have been passing up the things we want for the things we need. Whether you’ve been unemployed, or hanging onto a job making less money than you’d like, the temptation to use your tax refund on whatever you’ve been craving is strong.
But what if you could use that money to help you get a new job– a job you like, or maybe a job that pays more? Did that fancy new TV or iThing just lose some luster? Read on to find out how you can invest your new-found cash in yourself (and maybe make more of it in the process).
Certifications and schooling
Search for jobs that interest you and check out what employers are asking for. Are there any certifications or training that would make you a better fit for your dream job?
If you’re looking for a job with great opportunities, medical assistant is a good bet. The demand for medical assistants is growing like crazy, and most communities have medical trade schools that can provide the certifications you need with full- or part-time courses.
Trying to advance your construction career? Consider a trade certification in welding, concrete finishing or language courses in Spanish. Construction foremen and supervisors who are bilingual are needed to communicate with Spanish-speaking workers.
Get your finances in order
Use your chunk of cash to pay down your high interest loans, hire a financial advisor to help you create a budget or pay off your credit card balance.
There’s a lot of debate about whether credit scores are used as part of the hiring process. Some jobs are more likely to involve a credit check (e.g. bank tellers, jewelry sales and home health care aides). In some states it’s downright illegal to screen applicants based on their credit report, in others it’s a grey area.
Whether the employer you’re considering will look into your credit report or not, improving your financial situation can help your job search. Spending less time worrying about your finances means more time to look for your next job (and making sure you have the energy to succeed once you find it).
Dress for the job you want
Retail therapy enthusiasts, this is not a green light to go nuts at the mall. But if you don’t have a go-to outfit for interviews, putting some money into your clothes is a good investment. Consider the jobs you’re targeting – for most hourly job interviews a nice pair of black slacks (not too tight, not too loose) and a dress shirt are a safe bet.
When you’re not sure what to wear, research the place you want to work. Observe how employees are dressed; then dress up. Are the current employees wearing jeans and t-shirts? Show up for your interview in khakis and a collared shirt. Seeing lots of business casual? Be prepared to suit up for success. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to be overdressed for interviews.
Pamper yourself
You’re qualified for the jobs you want, your life is in order and your interview clothes are hanging on the back of your closet door. That’s seriously impressive, but have you remembered to take care of your most important job asset?
We know that job hunting isn’t easy: researching employers, finding jobs and filling out applications takes time– not to mention energy, motivation and positive attitude. So how do you show up to interviews ready for a new job instead of a long nap? Take care of yourself in ways that prepare you to tackle your job hunt head on. Join a gym, get a haircut, relax with a massage– there are plenty of activities that will be good for you and your job search.
Good luck with your job search, and don’t forget: a flatscreen TV is totally nifty, but an awesome job is priceless.
