By Eugenia Sawa

Watching the nightly news recently got me thinking about the economy, the NBA lockout, and what the players were doing with all of the extra time on their hands. Then I read a story about Tony Parker and how he is playing basketball in Europe for a sum of money much more modest than his regular NBA salary. As part owner of the club he’s playing for he will also get to learn a few things in the management office. I’m not saying he is a hero nor do I know his true motives for playing in Europe, but – I like his attitude.

When the economy of NBA basketball gave him lemons Tony went to Europe to turn his situation into lemonade. He made the decision to keep his skills sharp, play in a different league, and really think outside of the box in an unexpected move.

How does this translate to the regular world? A lot of this holds true in any job search:

1. Look at your skills set and identify your options – Then see if skills translate into a different field. Some of the machine learning and AI software engineers I have worked with have experience in the biomedical field using their same skills but focusing on genetics or biomedical imaging. Just because you aren’t working in the field of your choice doesn’t mean there isn’t another field or area you can utilize your skills. This requires research, curiosity, and the ability to think outside of the box.
2. Don’t limit yourself to jobs in the big leagues – While most people focus on getting jobs with big name companies or startups, keep an open mind to lesser known and perhaps smaller companies where you have more opportunity to be in the game, keeping and possibly even growing your existing skills. You can expand upon your skill set because you will likely get to wear more hats than you’re used to in this type of environment. A developer job in this type of setting may also require you to do testing, budgeting, or release management work. It’s easier to stretch yourself in this type of situation and the opportunity to do so is greater.
3. Don’t let pay deter you from taking a job even if it is short term – I know this might be tough one. You know what you’re worth in the market and until you find that job that will pay you what you consider market value, it doesn’t hurt to work in a job that pays less than you are accustomed. You are using your skills keeping yourself sharp until you find your ideal job. Recruiters often ask about gaps in employment and while it’s not a deal breaker; it speaks volumes when someone keeps themselves busy and keeps their skills marketable. Tony knows this is a short term move in his long career and knows what he might be worth long term, but despite that, he’s working and learning.

So what does all this mean? Make a list of your skills and see if it translates into a different role. It could be one that you have never thought of and may be something you enjoy. Think differently even if it is out of your comfort zone and don’t limit your options. And the best part? You can do all of this while running a continuous job search for “the” job you’re hoping to land either now or in the near future. So go now – play ball!

-Eugenia