To be unemployed and single is a bad combination. You become scared of how you are perceived by others. So much happens, when you eventually meet that special someone that you may get married to but it leaves you with so much worry on how to answer the dreaded question of ‘What do you do for a living?’
Don’t let your unemployment status take the better part of you. Below are 6 tips for handling the awkward “I’m actually unemployed” talk so you can keep dating while you are unemployed:
1. Discover your passion
Dating is the perfect time to redefine yourself. You do this by discovering what you are really passionate about during this transitional period. Most times, so much emphasis on having a good job. You need to realize that, even if you have a good job, it is not going to get you the girl or the guy automatically. In your conversations, talk about your passion. This is a good way to show you are a promising person.
2. Avoid conversation killers
There are three common questions which are conversation killers that come up during the dating phase. They are:
- What do you do for a living?
- How old are you?
- Where are you from?
Here are a few conversation starters to replace the conversation killers:
- What’s your dream job?
- What are your hobbies?
- What are some places you would like to visit?
3. Be positive
You need to be honest about your unemployment. That doesn’t mean you have to be negative about it, though. For instance, rather than talking about how the economy is killing your industry, or how hiring folks just don’t “get you,” focus on what’s working. When you cast blame on life’s circumstances, it decreases the energy level of your date and he [or she]will be more turned off by your negativity rather than the fact that you are unemployed.
4. Don’t be too serious
Try to liven up the situation as best as you can. If you start feeling uncomfortable, try joking around and making light of the situation. Don’t be overly serious about the date or it is going to be uncomfortable.
5. Amplify your online brand
First impressions are lasting impressions. In the online dating world, your first impression is digitized—and your career is part of that. Most dating profiles have a section to discuss your job. When you’re unemployed, avoid listing a hopeful job title or giving a resume rundown. Avoid posting old photos, or mentioning a would-be job or past position because it sets expectations you can’t live up to in person.