Job hunting can be draining, especially when it takes longer than expected. While you might have intended to have a job within a week or two, realistically, the process is more involved than that. But getting automatic rejection emails or being passed over after an interview you felt went really well can be disheartening and put a damper on your motivation. Take steps to keep a positive mindset and stay productive during a lengthy job search with these tips from Grammar Chic.

Create a Schedule

Searching for a job can feel like a full-time job sometimes, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Develop a schedule that details your “working hours” each day of when you will be focused on researching, applying, practicing your interview skills, networking, etc. Make this dedicated time for your job search and limit outside distractions like watching tv, fixing meals, doing laundry, or mindlessly scrolling social media.

Decide what you will do each day. For example, Monday might be when you scope out different companies that have a presence in your area or hire remote workers. Tuesday could be focused on searching for job opportunities that align with your interests and skills. Wednesday might be spent tailoring your resume and applying for roles, and Thursday you could follow up on positions you have submitted an application for but have not heard back from. Then on Friday, you might decide to devote your time to networking or skill building.

Having a plan for each day can help you stay motivated and on track because you know what you want to accomplish and aren’t dragging your feet wondering where you should start.

Set Goals for Yourself

Your ultimate goal is to land a new job, but you can have smaller goals along the way to keep you moving forward. This could include things such as:

  • Finding five new job openings per day.
  • Applying to three positions a week.
  • Spending 30 minutes per day polishing up your skills.
  • Scheduling one networking or exploratory call per week.

Make sure your goals are measurable and attainable. You don’t want to set the bar too high and feel disappointed if you fall short. Track everything you do on a spreadsheet so you can measure your progress and see what you have accomplished each day or week.

Celebrate Small Wins

Did you hit your goal for the day? Did you land an interview or move forward to the next step in the process? Did you get a credible lead from a friend or former colleague? These are all things to be proud of. Instead of focusing on the rejections, prioritize the things that are going well.

Work with a Career Coach

A career coach can help you better understand your skills, abilities, and interests in order to better focus your job search. They can provide constructive feedback, offer guidance, and help you get unstuck by reframing your mindset and assisting you in developing effective strategies.

Get Support from Family and Friends

You don’t have to go through a lengthy job search alone. Turn to friends or family to vent your frustrations and receive words of encouragement. Collaborate on ideas for different companies or industries to research or positions that might be a good fit. Simply enjoy their companionship and give yourself a break to do something fun or energizing.

Take Care of Yourself

You can’t put your best foot forward when it comes to tailoring your resume or nailing an interview if you’re exhausted and overwhelmed. Plan breaks into your daily schedule as well as a day off every now and then. Go to the gym to burn off stress and pent up energy, and eat a well-balanced diet so you stay in good health.

It can be frustrating and stressful not having a job, but don’t let it take over every facet of your life. You can’t control what a hiring manager or employer does. All you can do is present yourself as a strong candidate. Don’t let other obligations fall to the wayside. Continue going to book club, volunteering at the soup kitchen, or attending your child’s practices or games. You still need balance in your life.

Build Your Network

You never know where your next job opportunity may come from. Spend time on LinkedIn expanding your network and connecting with people in your industry or profession, as well as different thought leaders and former colleagues. Go to events in your community where you can meet and speak with other professionals. Let friends and family know that you are on the job hunt and see if they have leads or connections.

Talk about your skills, experience, and passion with others so they get a better sense of what you have to offer. They may see you as a great fit for a role you had not considered, or something they know will be opening up at their place of employment. Engage with others on LinkedIn as well by replying to and sharing posts.

Boost Your Skills

Keep developing as a professional. Look for online courses you can take to advance your skillset or learn something new. Devote some of your time to earning a certification or working toward a degree. Think about what you want to do in the future and how you can better position yourself to earn these roles. As you review different job postings, see what skills they are seeking that you don’t yet have but can gain. Learning new things can also keep you motivated and excited for what comes next in your career.

Revamp Your Resume

Are you not getting the response you had hoped for even when applying for jobs where you are clearly qualified? Your resume may be in part to blame. A professionally written resume can be a worthwhile investment so that you know your materials meet current standards and effectively position you for the type of roles you are seeking. Turn to the team at Grammar Chic to bring your resume up to date. Contact us at (803) 831-7444 or resumewriting@grammarchic.net to schedule a consultation.