It's easy to become frustrated when your job search feels like it's going nowhere. If you're not able to find any jobs that match your skills, sending out resumes with no interviews in sight or going on dozens of interviews and not receiving job offers, you may feel like you're wasting your time. Keep these seven tips in mind to help you stay motivated throughout your job search.
1. Learn Your Own Patterns
Determine what time of day you have the most mental energy, and use those time periods to tackle the job search tasks you find most draining. For example, if you dread the thought of filling out job applications, do this when your energy levels are at their peak.
2. Establish a Routine
Create a job search routine that you can follow daily. Start your morning by scouring job postings for new leads. Make networking phone calls and send follow-up emails during prime business hours. You can complete tasks such as filling out applications, composing cover letters and updating resumes any hour of the day.
3. Enlist a Support System
If you have a friend who is knee-deep in the job search, team up to keep each other motivated. Check in with each other regularly to compare job leads or share resume tips. Consider joining a support group for job seekers to network with other professionals in your position.
4. Upgrade Your Skills
If you feel like your resume could use a boost, update your skill set. Think about the position you're hoping to land, and decide which of your skills are most valuable to potential employers. To enhance your skills, sign up for a class at your local community college, or enroll in online courses.
5. Change Your Game Plan
If the same old routine is beginning to wear on you, change up your job search methodology to drown out the monotony. Rather than spending another day stuffing resumes into envelopes, attend a job fair or join a community group for professionals in your desired industry.
6. Take a Break
Don't let yourself get burnt out on the job search. Give yourself time to explore other hobbies. Step away from the computer for an hour to take a walk or meditate. Set limits on the amount of time you devote to job search activities each day.
7. Hire a Coach
If you're losing hope, consider hiring a professional career coach to jump start your job search. Set up an initial consultation to discuss the details and make sure you're comfortable with the individual. Explain your goals and expectations clearly.
The job search process can be lengthy. You're bound to face some disappointments and even rejections before you get an offer you can't refuse. When you're feeling down, stay motivated with these quick tips.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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