CAREER
Regain Your Job-Search Optimism
with Three Easy Steps
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If you’ve been in a job search for more
than a few months, you already know that one of the greatest challenges
is maintaining a positive attitude. Without it, going through the
motions can feel as demotivating as running a race in lead boots.
You begin to think “What’s the use? I’ve already sent out 50 resumes
this week with nothing to show for it.”
If you find yourself in an emotional slump, here are three things
you can do to regain a positive, optimistic outlook:
1) Write out an action plan that includes job-search activities
in these four areas:
* Search and respond intelligently to online and print job openings.
To optimize your results take the time to customize your cover letters
to each opportunity.
* Research potential employers to contact proactively in search
of not-yet-posted job leads. Make sure your research includes contact
names of key executive within the organizations. Again, customize
your cover letters to illustrate your interest in their company
and/or industry.
* Contact members of your personal network of friends, former colleagues
and professional association members to let them know of your search.
Continually build your network through new professional associations,
job fairs, trade shows and business networking events. Involve yourself
with others who will tell you of job leads in the “hidden” job market.
* Invest in an online resume distribution that allows you to target
your resume to employers and recruiters most likely interested in
your qualifications. You’ll see quick results allowing you to jumpstart
your interview activity level.
Once you have your action plan, schedule these activities just as
you would if employed on the job. Plan your work and work your plan.
2) Choose an accountability partner and support group. These are
essential to keep you motivated and on track with your action plan
and schedule. An accountability partner helps you reach your activity
goals. A live support group (vs. online chat group) keeps you actively
involved with others who understand your situation and can lend
emotional support. Caution: avoid negative groups of job seekers
who will drag you down by their pessimistic outlook.
3) Allow yourself to enjoy simple pleasures. Spend an evening with
a great book. Take a walk on a sunny afternoon. Play football with
your son. Meet a friend at a coffee shop for a long chat. Often
job seekers think they don’t deserve any fun until they’ve found
a job. The truth is there is more time for simple pleasures while
unemployed than any other time in life. Once you’ve put your job-search
action plan into practice and you’ve spent your time wisely in productive
activities, reward yourself a little. You deserve it!
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Deborah Walker, CCMC
Resume Writer ~ Career Coach
To see resume samples and read more job-search tips visit www.AlphaAdvantage.com
Email: Deb@AlphaAdvantage.com
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