Job searching is challenging, emotional, time consuming, stressful and depressing. It can be a rocky road that plays out within the family environment and all persons in the house can be affected in some way or another. It’s a time for active support and guidance to open up new job search channels and travel from unemployed to hired in the fastest time.
As a Certified Job Search Strategist, a major component of my work with a client is emotional support, keeping them active and exploring all options in a competitive environment with checks and balances. It’s a turbulent time, well up there on the stress scale and made even worse if you have been terminated. Here are some suggestions:
- Don’t hunker down in your house all the time. Get outside, come rain or shine, for at least 30 minutes each day. Fresh air helps to re-energize you.
- Look for volunteering opportunities, preferably not political, or not religious. Although time consuming, you can gain valuable knowledge. It also shows a potential employer that you are willing to give your time for free, that you are caring, sharing and willing to assist others in need. Also, you never know who you will meet, perhaps a person who can be influential in your career. Networking is an integral element of a job search. Your contributions for free are always appreciated.
- Stay clear of alcohol and other depressants. If in need of some psychological help, seek it fast! If you feel tired, angry or lonely give yourself permission to take a break from the arduous job search.
- Return to college or university; life is one continuous learning exercise. Develop new skills, something that a future employer will applaud. The more trained and knowledgeable you are, the more opportunities for employment. Continuous education is great to show on a resume.
- Celebrate triumphs. After each interview, invite your friends to a party and have fun. With each party you host, you are closer to the big job success celebration where you can really relax.
- Bypass miserable, negative, pessimistic people. Instead, connect with positive, supportive, driven and energetic people who strive for success and are willing to provide proactive guidance and support throughout the job search process.
- Network, network, network. This should be a prime focus. Get out there and introduce yourself to others within your defined area and with other unemployed professionals.
- Do inspirational and energetic things: join a gym, play sports, participate in your community.
- Ask your friends to provide some inspirational things about you; these will inspire you to pursue the job search through thick and thin.
Finally, be realistic about a job search; it takes patience and determination. Make it fun!
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