Blonde girl typing at a computer on a wood desk with a soda can
in-pacents

3 Things to do During Furlough

Using your Time off During Furlough

It is unfortunate to be furloughed, and not having a paycheck can be very stressful. For those who are currently out of work, the hope is that this won’t last long. Although you might not be working, you can still use this time to be productive.

Look for a New Job

You might have a great job to go back to when this furlough is over, but you could use this time to look at other jobs. Practices are still hiring and are preparing for the flood of patients that are expected to come in once the social distancing is improved. Use the time that you have off to explore other options.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY BE COMPENSATED FOR SOME OF THE PRODUCTS LISTED.  HELP US OUT BY USING THE LINKS. FULL DISCLOSURE.

If you’ve been thinking about changing jobs, use a site like ZipRecruiter to aid in your search. Be sure to update your CV or resume with your most current information before uploading it.

Complete CME

If you are still happy with your current job and are waiting for your furlough to be over, you could work on CME during this time. There are many online options for CME.

A great resource is AAPA CME Central,  where you’ll be able to find online CME material. Another option is to invest in an online review course if you’re close to re-certification.

[jetpack_subscription_form title=”Stay Up to Date on the PA career” subscribe_text=”Enter your email address to receive future posts by email for FREE” subscribe_button=”Sign Me Up”]

Start a Side Gig

A side gig allows you to have an extra income while working full-time or furloughed. If you have student loans a side gig can be used to help pay off those loans. As it is not typically a full-time job, it must have flexible hours; something that can be done in your spare time. I’ve highlighted a PAs in the past who had side gigs, including starting an apparel company, medical writing, and health coaching.

Another option is driving for Postmates, where you would deliver food, groceries, and more. There are no fees, no commitments, and you take home 100% of what you earn. If you’re sitting around this is an opportunity that is currently in high demand, and once you’re back to your normal job, this can be done in your spare time.

What have you been doing during furlough? Please comment below the original post, sign up to receive future posts by email and share with your friends!