Submitted by Greg Nilson on Tue, 11/15/2011 - 08:58
It’s still a tough job market and it may be that way for awhile. While the economic numbers tell us that there is a bit of an improvement, many people are still underpaid, and are having their hours threatened to be cut back. So what is there to do?
At a time when most people looking for a job should learn to think outside the box, the idea to serve as an un-paid apprentice may be just the ticket to a steady paying job within a period of time. What’s the benefit? In turn for a person's labor they can be taught a trade by an expert in the field, they get job experience, and a recommendation. Not bad, if you would otherwise spend your time searching in futility help wanted ads.
Plenty of steady jobs as an apprentice
Why not pick a trade that you have always wanted to do, learn the business, and then go off and generate your own clients?
Here are a few trades that will always be steady business within a community:
Plumber: We all need a plumber from time to time right? Learning the ins-and-outs of plumbing could be fun and certainly always in need. Do a three month apprenticeship and file for necessary paperwork and go into your own business or work for someone.
Electrician: Like plumbing, electricians are always in big need. After all, when was the last time you turned on the lights? That’s right, probably within the last hour, right? Okay, so like plumbing an apprenticeship can generate some big bucks in just months.
Landscaping: We all need our lawns mowed. But consider stepping it up a notch and learn the intricacies of landscaping and go hustle your own clients.
Pool man: Every working pool needs to be maintained right? Well, by spending as little as three months with an effective pool guy, you will be ready to take on your own business and clients right away.
Painter: Homes and businesses all need painters. By spending a few months doing several jobs “for free” you can get to know the ins-and-outs of the business, learn the types of paint, materials, and supplies you will need and then be ready to start handling your own.
Web Marketer: Web marketing is one of the jobs that are in highest demand right now. Every website wants to gain more traction and more website visitors. Guess how they do this? That’s right, with the help of web marketers. Why not spend as little as four weeks with an expert marketer and start doing it yourself?
Trash Hauler: Got a truck? Spend one weekend with an experienced hauler, have the rules and regulations on hand of dumping in your local area and then start picking up people’s garbage, waste, or old furniture. You can be making over $200 bucks a day making runs for people!
Graphic Designer: If you love art and love to make money, then why not do a little graphic designing? Every business needs art work done for business cards, postcards, coupons, or web design work. A graphic designer can teach you everything you need to know and provide you a great way to earn extra income doing something you love. What’s great is that graphic designing can create a flexible schedule. Whether you like to work late at night or in the early morning, graphic design work just might be for you.
Sure, the economy is still petering along, but there are many different ways for you to generate value to pay the rent or pay off bills. Working for free has its benefits. Consider finding a school offering apprenticeships, and this may soon pay off with a steady job!
Excellent Idea
Becoming an apprentice or an intern is a great idea, especially right now. It may seem like a waste of time, but it really pays off. By taking this step, you get to gain experience and make connections that can be very valuable down the road.
Right now, almost every single job market is incredibly competitive. An apprenticeship can give you that edge over the competition when you are ready to apply for jobs. In many cases, apprentices or interns are eventually hired by the company they are working for, so it can be a foot in the door for you.