"Just Keep Swimming": How to Keep Motivated While on the Job Hunt

Jun. 1

By Chantal Noelene McFarlane

So, you have prepared your resume, wrote an amazing cover letter, and finally you are ready to send out the application...

You hit that submit button.

And you sit and wait...

The proverbial waiting... Wait for the interview, wait after the interview...

And wait some more...

If you do not have a proper self-care system to help you stay motivated while waiting for a response back or simply to stay positive through the entire process, the waiting period can be demoralizing. Here are six tips to help you strategize, keep focus and stay motivated during the job hunt phase:

Please note that this is a phase.
This moment of being jobless or wanting to switch careers will not last forever. Stay your course and just keep swimming. During moments of doubt and derailment look to the fact that this situation is only temporary. You will get through it, there is another side.
Take time away from the job search.
We know this sounds counter-intuitive to the task at hand but taking healthy breaks from job hunting will leave you feeling refuelled and will help you de-stress. Find activities that you enjoy, read a book, exercise or go for a walk. When you don't take breaks you will find yourself feeling burned out and hitting the submit button to any job. Take a break, refocus and refuel.
Use rejection to channel feedback.
Out of the 100s of candidates that applied you were rejected. Understand that rejection is part of the job search process. You probably felt were the perfect fit, however it is the hiring manager's job to eliminate candidates and if you get eliminated that is commonplace. Use this moment to follow up with the employer. Ask for feedback on how you can improve on your next application.
Reach out to others.
A lot of friends and family have been through the job search process or are currently going through the same frustration. If you are feeling overwhelmed reach out to them for support. This will be a great way to remain focused. Also, by discussing your search with others, you may hear about networking opportunities and job prospect leads.
Celebrate your accomplishments!
You got the interview but didn't get the job. This means your resume and cover letter is getting the right attention. This is a win! This means you are doing things right. No matter how small, celebrate your wins until you are able to celebrate your ultimate victory of landing the job.