How to Look for a Job & Not Be Discouraged

Stay healthy and take breaks from your search.

A job search is a self-motivated process which requires energy, stamina and a positive attitude. If a search goes on too long, however, the stress of unemployment can set in and make it increasingly difficult to maintain hope. There are several ways you can keep up your spirits and prevent discouragement from setting in. The good news is that your motivation and attitude is in your control. The positive face you display to the world is the one that will get you the job you want.

Instructions

1. Choose to be around the right people. Friends with jobs are good resources of information about openings; they also remind you that not everyone is unemployed. Forming a job search group with others is another option. Keep your social circle positive. Spend time with people who lift your self-esteem and avoid those who make you feel down.

2. Set goals and periodically change your methods. Network with one person and research a company every day. Arrange 10 interviews a month, including informational interviews to learn about companies and industries. If you've gone several weeks without a bite, switch your resume format and start using different search techniques. Go to several placement agencies or visit new job search websites.

3. Focus on positive media. If you're searching for a job during an economic downturn it might help to know you're not alone. An excess of negative news reports, however, might lead you to believe things will never get better and make you even more discouraged. Choose instead to watch inspiring programs and learn about successful people.

4. Tap other people to keep you on track. Inform a friend of your job search goals and regularly let her know how you're doing. Ask her to let you know when your conversation or demeanor becomes too negative; a negative attitude will not only aid in your discouragement, it will also turn off potential employers. Find a mentor in your industry to give you advice and encouragement.

5. Maintain good health. Feeling good physically is a starting point to feeling good mentally. Exercise regularly and eat healthy. Take a daily walk around your neighborhood and cook simple meals at home instead of going out for fast food. To up your confidence level, give yourself challenges and meet them, whether it's to decrease the time it takes you to walk a certain distance or to try a new recipe every week.

6. Take breaks from your job search. Time away from the hunt will help recharge your batteries and keep your spirits up. Volunteer for a charity or take a course to learn a language or a skill that interests you. Take one day off a week to forget about your job search completely. This down time will give you the energy to tackle the job search once again.

References

• "US News and World Report"; Twenty Ways to Stay Motivated During Your Job Search; Karen Burns; October 2010
• CNBC; How to Stay Motivated During Your Darkest Job Search Days; Connie Thanasoulis-Cerrachio; January 2009