5 Tips To Surviving A Long Job Search

Yes, it can be difficult to stay focused and positive throughout your job search, but have no fear. Here are five secrets to keep yourself together during even the cruelest job hunt.

1. Be patient.

We live in world where everyone wants instant gratification. We want what we want, and we want it now. It would be great if this worked in the job search, but it doesn’t.  The right opportunity will come along if you are patient. If you settle for the first offer that comes along, you may find yourself in the job search again a few months down the road.

2. Don’t focus on the “no’s”.

You won’t get an interview every time you send in your resume and apply. That’s a fact. Dwelling on the jobs you didn’t get contacted about will only take time away from moving on to the next opportunity. Stop fixating on why you didn’t get phone calls and work on molding yourself in to the perfect candidate for the next jobs you apply to.

3. Take time – every day – to forget about the search entirely.

Go out with friends, go to yoga, or take a long weekend trip somewhere.  Spend time doing things that make you completely forget about the endless job search and relax.

4. Give your resume a boost.

This doesn’t just mean using a new font or re-writing some of your past job descriptions.  Take an online class, get certified in something you haven’t yet mastered, or do some freelance work. This will help build your resume and show employers that you’re taking initiative to learn new skills and become a better employee.

5. Network with literally everyone.

Tell friends you’re looking for a new job, message an old college friend who works in the industry you’re hoping to get in to, go to networking events, do ANYTHING to get in touch with people who might be able to help you in your job search.  Having a solid resume and cover letter is helpful, but knowing someone who can connect your resume to the right people can be one of the most crucial points in your job search.