A tough, drawn-out job search can drain your motivation and bury your confidence under layers of disappointment and self-doubt. Hold yourself accountable for your progress, and expose yourself to new environments to overcome the tunnel vision of a job search.
Your job search is important, but it shouldn't be the sole focus of every day. Approach the search like a job, and create a schedule outlining the amount of time you plan to spend on specific tasks. Avoid being too broad, as vague tasks make it easy for you to flake out on your obligations. For example, commit to finding three to five leads a week or scheduling four informational interviews a month.
Each task should logically lead to the next, helping you gain referrals, expand your network, follow up with contacts and meet with hiring managers. A record of your progress provides an uplifting reminder that you are doing something and moving closer to your goal.
Write out your career plan and objectives, highlighting the job qualities that make you most motivated. Use this information to identify overlapping interests that relate to job positions you haven't previously considered. Stay positive by focusing on what you learn from each interaction with employers. Ask for feedback from interviewers, recruiters and mentors so you can continually hone your communication skills and better understand industry values.
Mental and emotional health are equally important, as job-search rejection can trigger intense feelings of failure. Maintain a stable routine, and make sure you get sufficient sleep and exercise. Outside of your "work" hours, try to clear your mind of job-search worries. Keep your family and friends up to date on your job-search efforts so they can offer emotional support and referrals.
Get involved in recreational or volunteer activities to boost your morale and forge new relationships. Hobbies that begin as passion projects can easily lead to your next career opportunity.
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