The application and hiring process can be a daunting task sometimes. Whether you are going back to the job market or looking for your first job, staying motivated can be the biggest challenge. This is especially true when you feel like it’s taking you too long to land a job. If you’re feeling exhausted and looking for ways to keep yourself energized, you’ve arrived at the perfect place. To help you stay motivated, here are six tips that will help you throughout your job hunting phase.
First off, how long do job hunts usually last?
There is no exact answer to this for there are many factors affect the period needed for the search and hiring process. It takes around five or six months on average, but that could be shorter or longer depending on the job and company. For instance, the level of position you are applying for dramatically affects how long it takes. It would naturally take you more time if you’re looking for a specific executive position.
Because of the extended time to hire for executive positions, some people prefer to start in the lower ranks then gradually work their way up. These roles, such as entry-level healthcare administration jobs or management trainee positions, mainly require little to no experience. They also give you a chance to learn and gain more experience for higher positions.
How do you keep yourself motivated during a job hunt?
Whether you are eyeing an entry-level position or an executive one, the biggest challenge you’ll probably face is losing your drive and feeling discouraged. However, as mentioned earlier, job hunts usually take months, so don’t be discouraged right away. Instead, keep a positive outlook and always do your best. Here’s how you can do it:
Set clear, realistic, and measurable goals
Setting clear and realistic goals is an excellent first step to success. Know what you want, when you want it, and what steps you can take to get there. Just as a warrior never goes to the battlefield unprepared, you should always take extra steps to plan for your job hunting journey. Having everything prepared can help keep you confident and motivated throughout the process since you won’t have to worry about the small details. This method may sound simple but will help you stay on course throughout the job search.
Have a list of your strengths and achievements
Sometimes, you can get caught up easily in comparing yourself to others amidst job hunting. You can keep a list of your achievements readily available through focusing on your personal strengths. Highlighting those stellar points in your resume and portfolio will leave employers with an incredible impression of you, too.
A hybrid resume template can be convenient for this purpose. It’s an attractive option because it combines the best parts of a chronological resume and a functional resume. This combination helps you draw employers’ attention to your outstanding skills and experiences and away from any weaknesses. Also, don’t forget to thoroughly prepare yourself for interviews and trial tasks so that you won’t be surprised or panic when the time comes.
Don’t fear rejection
One of the reasons people experience demotivation quickly is because they continually worry about rejection. If this sounds familiar, then it’s something you can work to improve. Indeed, rejection is never easy, especially when you know you’ve given it your best. However, keep in mind that denial happens to everyone and can be a valuable learning experience. After all, you learn through experience, and there’s a perfect role out there for you!
Surround yourself with inspiring people in your field
Keep upskilling yourself by surrounding yourself with people who you can learn. Look for motivational speakers, listen to podcasts, or read blogs related to your industry. Sometimes a single uplifting thought is all you need to spark a brilliant idea. Or it can even give you the extra push you’ve been needing.
On top of that, surrounding yourself with industry-related content and professionals can help you keep up with the latest developments in your field. Staying knowledgeable in this way gives you a massive advantage in your interviews, too. You’ll be able to take part in a higher level of discussion with your employers, which can set you apart from other candidates.
Collect testimonials and references
You might have specific strengths and talents that you are not aware of or have overlooked. Creating a collection of recommendations comes in handy at times like this. It can help you point out note-worthy skills that you failed to highlight in your resume or portfolio. Look for client reviews from your past projects, or ask your previous manager for feedback. You can gain a broader perspective by asking a trusted friend to pinpoint some of your attributes. This action also gives you time to acknowledge all of your feats, which you can be proud of accomplishing. Hence, a lower chance of getting demotivated, right?
Research before applying
If you’ve followed all the previous tips, you’re now ready to face the job hunt with the highest level of motivation. Great job! But before you get too excited and send your application to tons of companies, be sure you’ve done your research first. Here are guidelines that may be able to help you in this process:
- List out the companies that are on your priority list (ideally your top 5).
- Start devising an intelligent and targeted plan for your job hunt.
- Research your list: working principles, values, competitors, etc.
- Know the skill requirement for the position you want.
- See how your skills match up with what each company wants.
- Determine if your goals and values align with your preferred companies.
Final Words
Many would agree that it’s very challenging to maintain your motivation and stay in high spirits when looking for a job. Hopefully, reviewing this article helps you feel more prepared for the road ahead. Just keep these tips in mind, and you’ll surely be able to face the job hunting journey with energy and confidence. It wouldn’t be impossible for you to reach for your dream!