For most people, changing jobs is not something they plan in detail. For most job seekers, they have a personal connection to the job opening. The process is quite simple and relatively painless. Most people tend to assume that this is how job hunting is. This all changes when a job seeker is forced to proactively find a new job without connections. Ask anyone who has gotten to work completely on their own, and they’ll likely have a shocking story to share.
When a job seeker searches on their own, the process can easily take anywhere from two to six months. This duration is normal. It is not a reflection on a person’s abilities or worth. But, it certainly doesn’t feel that way. The problem is that the search process is completely different than when you know someone.
There are examples of difficult job searches shared daily on LinkedIn. Recently a job seeker turned to 600 jobs. These inquiries led to 30 interviews. The 30 interviews eventually led to one job offer. This job seeker has many years of experience and many advanced degrees. The whole process took three months.
In addition, a job search can often take longer. The reason is that 570 rejections are emotionally draining. On top of that, friends and family judge the job seeker on how “hard” their search is. This leaves the job seeker feeling worthless, and wondering if they are even in the right career field.
Dear job seeker, please remember: this is not you. The application process is broken. You are competing against hundreds of online applicants. You are also competing with the hiring manager’s friends. And you are dealing with less than ideal economic conditions.
But, you are ready for it. The key is not to lose hope. It is to understand that the system is broken; Not you. You are the same talented and hardworking professional you were before you began this search. You will find your way back.
Set yourself goals. Keep doing your best to meet the goals, even when things feel difficult. In the example above, the job seeker applied for about 200 jobs per month, or 50 per week, or 10 per business day. This process is a lot of work, but it will bring success.
In addition to apps, sit down and write a list of all the great things in your background. Maybe you have fifteen years of project management experience. You are great at organizing teams. You have advanced knowledge of specific topics. Once you’ve made your list, keep it handy. Every morning, read the list. Remind yourself who you are.
you are appreciated you are needed You are the same person you were before the economy started to turn around. External factors have changed, but you have not. You remain the same person you always were.
I hope these tips helped you. visit CopelandCoaching.com To find more tips to improve your job search. If I can help you, don’t hesitate Contact me here.
Happy hunting!
Angela Copeland
@CopelandCoach
