Are You Suffering From Job Search Paralysis?

Job seekers who have been searching for jobs day after day with no success may find themselves getting burnt out as well as losing their motivation and focus after countless rejection letters. This condition is commonly known as job search paralysis, and it can affect even the most dedicated professional. Discover whether you are suffering from job search paralysis, and turn your search around and breathe some life back into your quest for employment.

If you have stopped receiving emails or phone calls requesting a job interview, take a step back to examine how passive you are in your job search. One sign of job search paralysis is hiding behind a computer and hoping that your career network profile is enough to get you a job interview. Take every opportunity in your job search to make phone calls, send emails and talk to HR professionals in person to get in contact with hiring managers. Keep in mind that social media is a tool for connecting with the right people in your job search, but social media views and shares are rarely enough to get you an interview.

Job seekers with job search paralysis may also stop sending emails and making phone calls because they don't want to become a nuisance. Introducing yourself and following up with recruiters and employers is a vital aspect of the job search, and reaching out to employers is the only way to let them know that someone with your experience and skill set is available. Also keep in mind that not all employers post openings and job boards, so contacting a company directly may be necessary.

Another symptom of job search paralysis is constant resume tweaking. A lack of interview requests and job offers may lead you to adjust your resume and cover letter for fear that it is the culprit. Although a well written and carefully edited resume and cover letter is important, many job seekers constantly re-arrange these documents to avoid bigger tasks such as making calls to potential employers and filling out job applications.

Job seekers who have identified job search paralysis in themselves need to change their game if they wish to land more interviews. Keeping your job search and work area organized is a good method for keeping focused and motivated. Start keeping a record of all the calls you have made and the organizations to which you have applied, and keep your work desk free of clutter. It may also help to set aside a certain amount of time each day, such as one hour, to focus exclusively on your job search.

Job search paralysis is a common side effect of a particularly tough job search, but with some organization and focus, you can improve your odds of scoring an interview. If your job search paralysis is really hindering your search, don't be afraid to speak to a career counselor or ask for help from a qualified employment service.

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