I’m curious, courageous and creative, although I’m never going to be a fashion influencer or an investment angel.  Come to think of it though, I did take the world of fashion by storm in the 70s, but that was short lived.  At that time, my wardrobe was crammed with remarkable and original styles from the 30s and 40s.  To keep my look fresh, I extended my range and began to “buy to sell”.  I was even cited in two prominent (of their time) fashion magazines, although it never became my full-time business.  In the 70s “vintage” hadn’t really made its debut and I didn’t know the term “side-hustle” let alone use it to describe my trading capability.  Perhaps I was a bit of a trailblazer after all?

Not everyone is interested in selling second-hand stuff, although I’ve worked with many who’ve enjoyed the excitement of on-line trading (eBay not financial markets) and car boot sales.  While others have refreshed and upcycled small pieces of furniture or soft furnishings.  Right now, I’m hoping that these people in my HR inspired network are remembering to include similar skills and talents in their portfolio as they search for new roles.  Remember to tell your whole story, it’s time to acknowledge your alter ego.  It’s unlikely that you’ll embark on an upholstery apprenticeship any time soon, although it could be your side-hustle?  Let’s talk about what’s next for you.

What are your interests and how do they fit with your professional skills? Have you been baking, painting or jam making during isolation or have you been refreshing your interest in volunteering or photography? Perhaps it’s time to begin thinking outside of the box. How else could you utilise those writing talents? Who might benefit from your skills?

A couple of weeks ago I shared my experience of stepping outside my comfort zone and my endeavours to conquer the camera.  I wasn’t perfect, although I quickly realised the benefits of sharing my apprehension.  It will take a while for the techniques I’ve practised to become second nature and that’s the value in trying.  I know that I will get better.  There will always be others who are better at it than me and that’s fine because I didn’t set out to be a film star.  I simply wanted to learn another way of connecting with my audience.  These are exciting times for learning new skills and collaborating with others.

In recent months I’ve had many conversations about the options, “I’m furloughed, should I look for another role now or when I know that my role is redundant” is a common concern.  There are a few good news stories of course; some sectors are expanding and some clients who felt vulnerable have heard that, for now, their jobs remain key to the organisation’s success.  Perhaps this really is the time for a side-hustle?

Sadly, some of my very dear friends and ex-colleagues haven’t been so fortunate.  And despite my ongoing support, some of my favourite shops and restaurants didn’t make it.  I’m not an investment angel, my business has just one employee (and that’s me) although I’ve thought long and hard about how I can support this ever-increasing pool of extremely talented and entrepreneurial job seekers.  Yes of course, I can offer morale-boosting and practical support.  I can endeavour to protect them from, what I consider to be, poor employment or recruitment advice.  I don’t have jobs to offer them, even if they wanted to work with me again, although I’m a generous sharer of insight and positivity.

Right now, many business leaders are evaluating the economic impact of lockdown on their commercial strategies, while their people are assessing their employment options.  For some business is booming, although it’s clear that many businesses have already ceased trading and said a reluctant goodbye to their team members, while others are contemplating the inevitable.  It’s creating uncertainty for their clients as well as their colleagues.  Right now, I’m encouraging us all to support those business leaders who are genuinely demonstrating empathy with their people as they continue to navigate their own emotions and uncertainty.  That’s why I work with businesses as well as individuals, encouraging you to own your own future.