Are you in a job-search slump? It may be time to retool!
Have you found yourself looking for jobs less often, failing to get it together to apply for things, and just generally feeling disheartened by the process of looking for work? Slumps like this are normal but they stink.
So if you’re in a slump, here are some ways to pull yourself out.
First, remind yourself that the setbacks are temporary, and are very likely not because you are doing something wrong. (Although, of course, you might be! Don’t spurn advice you get from friends and family without considering it thoroughly.) It’s demoralizing to get rejection after rejection—or worse, just silence—when you apply for jobs. But this doesn’t say anything about you as a person or as a professional. Bolster your confidence by reminding yourself of past successes, even if you have to reach back several years to do so.
Next, reflect on what the hiring manager is experiencing. Usually the hiring manager isn’t someone who would be doing the job you’ve applied for, so your real task is to demonstrate, through your resume and cover letter, that you’re a great candidate. Don’t assume they will understand that work you have done before is similar, and don’t think they will necessarily know the jargon of your chosen field. Take a step back and really assess how you sound in your application. Then consider whether someone who is smart and professional but not in a role like yours would understand what you’re saying. I often call this the Grandma Test: presumably your grandmother is or was an intelligent person but she probably didn’t do what you’re applying to do, so would she understand your application materials?
Then set some goals for yourself. These don’t need to be numbers, as in that you will apply for 6 jobs a week, but should be focused on the outcomes you want. For instance, what kind of income do you want from your next job? What are some tasks you’ve done in the past but don’t want to do anymore? Outlining these goals (and writing them down where you can look at them periodically!) will help you keep yourself accountable so you can keep moving your job-search forward.
Next, find more than just the regular avenues for your applications. LinkedIn and Indeed are fine, but don’t overlook professional organizations, local job boards, word of mouth, company websites, and niche job boards. And be sure you’re tailoring your resume and cover letter when you find things that sound interesting. “Quick apply” is rarely your friend when you’re looking for something that fits you.
Finally, be sure to plan breaks from the search. The process isn’t really anyone’s idea of a good time, so give yourself some breaks and plan for some times to do things you enjoy. But be sure to set times around these down times! It’s much easier to watch baby sloth videos than to apply for jobs, but you only get paid for one of those.