11 Tips for Dealing with a Prolonged Job Search

11 Tips for Dealing with a Prolonged Job Search 11 Tips for Dealing with a Prolonged Job Search Every job seeker hopes their dream position is right around the corner, but sometimes a hunt lasts longer than expected. And while job satisfaction is worth the wait, a lengthy search can be quite frustrating. The good news is, there are some ways to help yourself deal with the stress and impatience you might be feeling during a prolonged job search. Here’s a look at some of the issues that commonly arise during a prolonged job search and tips for dealing with them: Avoiding Negativity The enthusiasm that permeated the early stages of your job search can dwindle with the passing of time. But nobody wants to hire a downer, so take measures to keep up your spirits and confidence. Exercise, eat right, and get sufficient sleep. These actions will help you to look and feel better. “Try to celebrate small successes along your journey,” says Kelly Donovan, principal of Kelly Donovan Associates. “If someone replies to a networking note you sent, or an HR representative contacts you for a phone screening after you applied for a position, you should pat yourself on the back. Dont be so focused on your ultimate goal of a new position that you consider yourself to be a failure every day you dont have a new job yet.” “Create a care team,” suggests job search strategist Sarah Johnston, founder of the Briefcase Coach. “Unemployment can really mess with your psyche, and you need people to pour truth into you about your worth and advocate for you. Team members might include professional mentors, positive friends who have seen you in good times, religious leaders, and your financial adviser.” Similarly, feel free to decline invitations from pessimistic friends who always see the glass as half empty. Combatting Boredom Feeling stagnant? Weeks of hunkering down in a home office scanning job boards and sending out resumes gets old. Shake things up both professionally and personally to fight monotony. Volunteer. You’ll gain skills, meet new people, and feel good about making a difference in the world. Throw effort into networking. Connections remain a top way to find a job, and lunch with an old college friend beats another afternoon parked in front of the computer. Take a class or learn a new skill. You’ll enrich your resume and develop something fresh to talk about in interviews. And conquering a new challenge stimulates the brain. Maintaining Momentum The job search may have started with a meticulous agenda in which you accomplished defined objectives. After awhile, however, job seekers often get sloppy about sticking to a plan. Instead of feeling guilty, find new ways to encourage productivity. “Join a job search work team,” Johnston suggests. “I really love the job search book by Orville Pierson called Team Up!  His research shows that job seekers who are on job search teams find work 20% faster.” Seek professional advice. You’d go to a doctor if your physical condition didn’t improve over time, so why not see a job coach to figure out what might be causing obstacles to career well-being? Handling Money Problems Finally, a longer-than-expected job hunt can bring financial distress. Before “settling” for an undesirable job that might soon lead you back to hunting, consider other options. Take on a part-time or temporary job. You’ll bring in money while still having time to conduct searches and go on interviews. Use your talents to freelance, consult, or take on gig work. Besides the earnings, you’ll enhance your resume and portfolio. And people impressed with your work may be able to put you in touch with others interested in offering full-time employment. Find a job that fits your lifestyle   Browse Open Flexible Jobs