The job search process can be a brutal one, able to throw even the most-grounded individuals off balance with having to deal with possible rejection (especially if that rejection is repeated!).
But how do we continue to stay positive and motivated while embroiled in the process of job search? It certainly can feel overwhelming; however, in order to combat the inherent stress that is just part of job search, these are a few simple tips, but certainly not all of them!
- Remind yourself that the jobs that are ultimately going to be worth it, are most likely the hardest ones to find and secure! Yes, roles can sometimes just land in your lap and the stars will align, but typically this isn’t the case. Good jobs are the ones that most people are wanting, and therefore, you will have to work at this. Understand this and be realistic with yourself.
- Envision yourself working in your ideal role, and name how you are going to feel while working in the role: “joyful”, “confident”, “comfortable”, a combination? Be intentional about your goal, define it and if you are so inclined, develop a “vision board”. Take a moment to consider what the environment will look/feel like, who will you be working with, what is its cultural makeup, will you be working independently or more so with a team, etc. Use magazine clippings of pictures, and words/letters, etc. and pin the clippings to a board of some sort. It will help to keep you on track of what you really want and focus your energies.
- Use this time to get to know yourself. Meaning, review your work/educational experience and the decisions that led you to this current day. Identify your personality strengths, skills, and values. This will help you to more easily identify what might be an ideal job for you when you are in the interviewing process, etc.
- Remember that the employer doesn’t hold all the cards; you have strengths to be valued and this is your decision as much as it is the employer’s as to whether the role is the right fit.
- Take control of your search by tracking it. Create a list of firms, based on their reputation, practice areas, etc. that you would like to target. In addition, develop a list of role characteristics that are connecting for you when you are reviewing job postings. Organize a list of firms, roles, and dates when you applied and heard back, etc.
- What else can you be doing with this time? Rather than becoming obsessed with hearing back from hiring managers, this is a time that is yours to continue to develop and make yourself more attractive to firms. Which skills would you like to add to your personal profile and how can you acquire them (i.e. by taking a one-day workshop in a legal software program)? How can you personally develop (i.e. would you like to be more assertive?) Pick up a book and jot down a few notes on what might work.) Are you seeing a pattern in the feedback you are receiving from interviews? How can you respond positively to developing yourself so this or that doesn’t continue?
- Connect with family and friends who are positive and encouraging in your job search. Just because your acquaintance doesn’t want the job, doesn’t mean it isn’t the job for you.
- The most important word to remember in all of this is “self-care”. Take time to exercise, sleep regular hours, and eat well. Seek out activities that bring you pleasure. Develop a mantra for yourself that brings you up, on the days/times that you are feeling down.
