Are These Ten Things Something That You are Tired of Hearing?

Being unemployed is hard, and searching for a job is a slow process. Unfortunately, well-meaning friends can make things worse with their casual questions about your job search. If you're tired of hearing these phrases, be ready to turn them off or turn them around to your advantage.

1. Any Leads Yet?

This question is hard to hear, especially when your employment leads are infrequent. Instead of giving an explanation for your lack of leads, say that the job search is going fine, and then take control of the conversation by asking for specific help where you need it.

2. Treat It Like a Full-Time Job

Often, there is not enough work involved in a job search to take up a full 40 hours every week. When given this advice, the best thing to do is simply nod your head and state that you are doing your best.

3. Did That One Company Ever Call You Back?

You are probably tired of explaining that that one interview three weeks ago went nowhere. Instead of stating the obvious, just say that you don't have a position yet and will let your friends know when you get hired.

4. Why Not Apply at the Grocery Store?

You know that it's not the best idea to take an unskilled minimum-wage job. Avoid a lengthy explanation by replying to this suggestion with a statement that you need to devote your time to finding a job in your field, and then asking if your friend knows of any leads in your field that might help you.

5. The Medical Field Is Where the Jobs Are

When well-meaning friends tell you about abundant jobs in other fields, assert that you love your career and are willing to be patient to find the job that is right for you.

6. What Do You Do All Day?

Avoid answering this question from a defensive stance. Instead, state that you are very busy and really need a break, and hope that your questioner gets the hint and takes you out for lunch.

7. Can You Help Me?

Family members may request help because they think you have more free time now that you are unemployed. Although you may be willing to help occasionally, try not to be too available. Let friends know that your job search takes up a lot of your time and energy.

8. Are You Networking Enough?

Of course, you're doing your best, but you shouldn't need to explain that daily. State that you are doing fine, and ask if the questioner knows of anyone else you should meet.

9. Get Out and Pound the Pavement

Older family members might not realize that contemporary job searches take place mostly online. Let your family know that companies no longer want job seekers showing up unexpected.

10. Why Is It Taking So Long?

You may have a lot of hypotheses about why your search is taking a while, but it is no fun to go over them repeatedly. Vaguely state that everything is fine and that with patience you'll find a great job.

Remember that these tiring questions about your job search are usually backed by good intentions. Instead of expressing frustration, ask your questioners to help you by providing quality employment leads in your field.

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