Researching company after company. Completing application after application. Waiting anxiously for a reply. Over and over again. Tirelessly hunting for a job in a jungle of uncertainty can drain even the most optimistic job-seeker. However, it’s important to stay motivated and focused while looking for a job. Consider these four tips to help you stay energized and focused while on the hunt for your next career opportunity.
Stick to a schedule: Looking for a job is a full-time job within itself. Consider making a schedule, similar to one you would use in an office setting, complete with breaks from the computer to clear your mind. Set aside time for you to research companies, look for job openings, send out resumes and follow up on emails. Creating structure in your day will make your search less of a chaotic mess and more into an organized project.
Find different job-searching strategies: Find informational interviews or professional workshops that can you give you more insight on your line of work. This is great for network opportunities as well. Consider visiting a career center or consult a professional resume writer to update your resume writing and/or interviewing skills.
Surround Yourself with Positivity
Surround yourself with positive people. Subscribing to your favorite blog, magazine, newspaper or even YouTube channel can help to lift your spirits if you begin to feel down. Reading biographies of successful people can serve as a great help too. Learning how almost every successful person has encountered setbacks or failures along the way can help to put things in perspective.
Take time off
Dedicating five hours of job hunting a day is taxing. Give yourself a couple days a month to relax and try to keep your weekends open to avoid burning out. Get out of the house. Volunteer in your community, exercise and eat healthy. Remember to enjoy yourself and spend time with the people you care about the most.