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Let’s face it.  Job hunting really is hard work, especially with today’s unemployment rates.  Here are ten tips for staying motivated while you are seeking new employment:

 

• Treat Your Job Search Like A Job.  Have a routine each day.  Set aside a designated time and space to do your job search.  Send out resumes, follow up on previous correspondence, search for new opportunities and register for networking events.  Put in the effort each day as you would at your job.

 

• Utilize Resource and Support Groups.  Many support groups and resources have been established for people in transition.  Ask around and find one in your area.  Talking and sharing with others who are in similar situations can be extremely helpful and they may be great networking opportunities for you. 

• Have Multiple Versions of Your Resume.  One size does not fit all when it comes to your job search.  You need to have a few versions of your resume and customize them to fit the job for which you are applying.  You may need to modify the objective or your experience to highlight your qualifications based on the requirements for the position.  Not taking the time to do this could be the difference between getting a call back and being rejected.

• Know Your Value.  Spend some time assessing the skills, experience and strengths you offer to an employer.  Be able to articulate how these can be leveraged by the organization.  Practice describing those assets on interviews.

• Think Outside the Box.  Just because you have always worked in one industry does not mean you cannot utilize those same skills in another industry.  Do not limit yourself.  Think broadly about your skills and how to apply them in different positions and businesses.

• Be Flexible.  This economy is one of the toughest we have seen yet.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the length of time it takes for people to have success in their job searches has increased sharply during the recent recession and ever since.  Consider what you are willing to compromise, whether it is salary, position on the corporate ladder or benefits.

• Utilize Networks.  If you do not ask, you most certainly will not receive.  Talk to and contact as many people as possible.  Tell them how they can help you.  Leverage social networking sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.  Be sure to attend networking functions. If you are not sure where to find local networking groups, they are often listed in local newspapers or on meetup.com.  You can even do an online search for networking groups in your region.

• Stay Positive.  While this can understandably be difficult to do, it is a huge asset.  The bottom line is that companies want people with positive attitudes, not those who will drag down the team. A positive attitude can make all the difference in getting hired.

• Set Goals.  Each week set specific job search goals.  For example, this week I will send out 20 resumes and contact 10 people.  Find a way to reward yourself when you meet those goals.  Setting goals is helpful for staying disciplined and keeping your chin up during this difficult transitional period.

• Take Care of Yourself. Job hunting is stressful.  Eat regularly, exercise, relax and sleep well so you have the energy to work on the other nine tips for job hunting. 

 

Good luck!