We’re knee-deep into the holidays, and if you’re a current job-seeker gaining little to no traction in your job-search, you’re certainly not alone. If you feel like you’re losing some jingle in your step, here are nine ways to get your holly jolly groove back and stay motivated.
1. Acquire new skills
In today’s era, it isn’t enough to be equipped with outdated skills. To stand out from the competition, you need to acquire an updated and competitive skill set that will stand the test of time. Consider taking classes, training and seminars as much as you can in order to enhance your skills for a concrete resume.
2. Change your approach
It’s difficult to seek out traditional job interviews when there are few job openings out there. Instead of waiting for an opportunity, try creating one by showing employers your commitment and perseverance by opting for informational interviews about the company and job position that you’re currently vying for.
3. Consider constructive criticism
When your job search seems to be stagnating, being too tough on ourselves can sometimes become overwhelming. After all, we can be our toughest critics. To gain another perspective, consider seeking constructive criticism from friends, colleagues and professionals in the industry to see where you can improve.
4. Expand your professional network
The saying “your network is your net worth” couldn’t be any more true enough when it comes to job searching. Start by expanding your professional network and surrounding yourselves with individuals in the industry that you want to work with and enjoy valuable advice which can manifest into unexpected opportunities.
5. Preparation is key
When job searching, planning and preparation is the key to successful outcomes. Aside from being a better version of ourselves, avoid falling into the trap of possessing mediocre personal files and documents. Improve your credentials by crafting a brag file of all your relevant background, experience and notable accomplishments.
6. Set small daily targets
Taking a big risk and failing in the process can be too much for anyone to handle and most people don’t seem to handle rejection very well. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, learn to change your approach instead by setting small and achievable daily targets that will align you in the right path of your job search in the future.
7. Specify your job goals
One common mistake for job seekers is not knowing what they truly want in the first place. Majority are easily enticed with the highest paying job available even if they don’t have a single idea about the industry in the first place. Acknowledge the job that you truly want by specifying and aligning your job search with the goals that you want to achieve.
8. Take days off and reflect
Feeling burned out and falling into depression can easily happen to you when you aren’t getting the results that you want during job searching. When nothing goes your way, always remember that it’s perfectly normal to take a break or two, assess what went wrong and reflect on how you can come back stronger and wiser.
9. Take inspiration from your role models
We all have role models in our lives and hopefully they’re successful ones. Instead of browsing through social media all day, why not try researching and learning about the different approaches and mindset that your role models followed to get to where they are today?
It’s perfectly fine to lose a jingle on your step during a job search and feel demotivated. Although this is perfectly normal, it’s also vital to remain honest with ourselves and take time to recalibrate our efforts.
Practicing a strong and positive mindset while hoping for the best is essential to survive during a tough job search. So stay positive, stay optimistic, and take care of yourselves.