Stop Sucking the Life Out of Your Job Search

John Krautzel
Posted by in Career Advice


If you have spent months searching for a job, it's perfectly normal to feel dejected. After all, it takes a lot of energy to spearhead a job search while you also handle all of your other responsibilities. What you may not know is that your own behavior might be the reason for your lack of results. If you haven't been able to find a job, follow these job search tips to get back on track.

1. Do Your Research

The modern job search is very different from what it used to be. Reading the classified section and calling potential employers are outdated methods of finding a good job. If you haven't looked for a job in a while, read up on best practices in identifying job opportunities, submitting your application materials and meeting with interviewers.

2. Develop a Strategy

If you haven't had much luck in your job search, it may be because you don't have a strategy. You can't just apply to a job every few weeks and expect to get results. Instead, you need to have a system for identifying job opportunities and applying to them. Every time you submit an application or have contact with a potential employer, record all of the pertinent information.

3. Know Your Strengths

When you interview for a job, you need to be able to sell the interviewer on the idea of hiring you. One of the best ways to communicate your value to a hiring manager is to know your own strengths. Before you start your job search, make a list of your professional skills, personality traits and work-related achievements. Review these attributes before every phone screen or in-person interview.

4. Start Networking

Many people find good jobs by attending networking meetings and using their professional connections to their advantage. If your job search consists of checking job boards and reading your local newspaper, you are bound to miss out on exciting opportunities. If you don't already belong to a local networking group, join one. When you attend a networking event, make it your mission to connect with people in your industry.

5. Build Your Confidence

Employers are looking for enthusiastic people who project confidence and a positive attitude. If your job search has been dragging on for months, don't let your confidence slip away. For a quick boost, take a little time to review your past accomplishments.

6. Ask for Help

If your job search has stalled out, don't be afraid to ask for help. Even professional athletes get help from their coaches and trainers, so there's no reason you shouldn't take advantage of your network of resources. If necessary, hire a career coach to guide you in finding the best opportunities in your industry.

While not always easy, finding a job does not have to be a huge hassle. If you are having trouble with your job search, take a step back and think about your options. Then follow these job search tips to get back on the right track.


Photo courtesy of renjith krishnan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

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  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    @Scott and @Mazie that is certainly true. Volunteering is a great way to open doors for future employment. I have a niece who is volunteering at a soup kitchen and they are already talking about offering her part-time work after the holidays (part-time is all she wanted as fulltime would have been too much). So yes, if you can, volunteer in your church, your kid's school or in the community. Great way to make friends, keep yourself busy, another entry on your resume and maybe even a new career.

  • Scott D.
    Scott D.

    @mazie. Sometimes volunteering at a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen is a way to land a job. (so i am told) People who volunteer or make donations sometimes have their own business or career. might be another way to network as well.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    @Mazie thanks for your comment. So sorry to hear about your accident. Sadly, age, along with health issues, may keep you out of the running for a position. You might do better by finding some local small businesses in your area that could use a receptionist or a greeter and contact them directly. Also, since you already have experience, check and see if maybe an Aldi's is in your area. Nice thing about them is that you can sit on a stool while doing your work. Best of luck to you.

  • Mazie R.
    Mazie R.

    I am having a difficult time finding a job. I am 74 years old and worked all my life. Last year I fell at work and was unable to continue doing the job as a grocery clerk. I cannot stand for a long period of time. The job I am looking for is a sit down job. I would like a part time job.

  • Jared F.
    Jared F.

    Im signing up for jobs that say a background search will be done . I have a misdemeanor assault on my record. Im married with3 boys and 3 girls. Im not getting any good reply back . - Sorry we chose another candidate - is what im getting . Any suggestions?

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