Unemployment is replete with downtime; in fact, they're essentially synonyms. Which means that it's a good time to focus on building your skill sets, that is, it's time to improve yourself. Take any skill you have at anything, and work with it, especially if it can be applied towards future employment. For example, if you love to write, focus on building a corporate-centered writing portfolio. If you like to draw, focus on creating pieces of work that could be used in advertising. Work with Photoshop or turn your camcorder into a way to study corporate videography. Yes, it's true that you risk turning a hobby into a job (something people simultaneously fear and strive for), but by doing nothing, you also risk getting evicted.

Skill sets are, simply, a set of skills you can apply towards a job, or work of any kind. These types of skills are a good thing to have on a resume, in addition to your work experience. They show potential employers not only that you can fill more roles than just your own, but they also show you've got an ability to learn, grow, and that you have the initiative to do it on your own. Companies like that kind of thing, because it shows that you've got the potential to be a great employee.

Not every hobby is going to be directly transferable to the corporate setting, however. Building airplane models, fishing, and golf are all great hobbies, but there's no real corporate corollary. This means you have to find an angle that interests you, and that you can exploit to build your career skills. For example, if you're used to touching up photos with Photoshop, start showing that you can create corporate logos, business cards, letter heads, and work on your desktop publishing skills. When an employer sees this on your resume, especially if you have something like a business degree, you're going to stand out just a little bit more.