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How to stay positive during your job search

Writer's picture: Brittany WilsonBrittany Wilson

5 job search strategies for a difficult job market
How to stay positive during a job search

Let's be honest - job searching can feel like an emotional roller coaster. One day you're excited about a promising interview, and the next day you're wondering why no one has responded to your last 20 applications. I get it. I've been there, and so has every other successful professional you know.


The Truth About Job Search Emotions

Here's something most career coaches won't tell you: feeling discouraged during your job search is completely normal. The average job search takes 3-6 months, and that's a long time to maintain your confidence. But I'm going to show you exactly how to keep going and how to stay positive during a job search even when it feels impossible.


Create a Success Routine

First things first - you need a routine that sets you up for success. Think of your job search like training for a marathon, not a sprint. Here's how to build momentum:

Start your day with small wins:


  • Make your bed

  • Get dressed like you're going to work

  • Set three achievable goals for the day

  • Spend 30 minutes learning something new in your field

  • Schedule breaks



A career coach can help you create your success routine. Plus, your first session is free!


When you accomplish these small tasks, you're programming your brain for success. Plus, you're becoming a stronger candidate every single day.


Track Your Progress (But Not Just Applications)

Stop counting only your job applications. Instead, track:


  • New skills you're developing

  • Networking connections you've made

  • Informational interviews you've completed

  • Resume improvements you've implemented

  • LinkedIn profile optimizations

  • Industry articles you've read


Why? Because applications aren't the only measure of progress. Every small step makes you more employable and brings you closer to your goal.


Turn Rejections into Learning Opportunities

Here's a mindset shift that will change everything: rejections aren't failures - they're data points. When you don't get a job:


  • Ask for feedback (some recruiters will provide it)

  • Practice interviewing with a friend and ask for feedback

  • Expand your job search to include other job titles

  • Identify skills gaps you can work on

  • Refine your responses for next time


Each rejection is making you better at interviewing and helping you understand what employers want.


Build Your Support System

Job searching alone is tough. Here's how to create your support network:


  • Join job search accountability groups

  • Connect with others in your industry on LinkedIn

  • Share your journey with friends who get it

  • Find a mentor who's been where you are

  • Consider working with a career coach



Looking for a career coach? Your first session is free!


Remember, successful people don't succeed alone - they build strong networks.


Maintain Your Mental Health

Your mental health matters more than any job application. Make time for:


  • Physical exercise (even just a daily walk)

  • Hobbies that make you happy

  • Conversations unrelated to job searching

  • Celebrating small victories

  • Setting boundaries around your search time


It's okay to take breaks. In fact, it's necessary for maintaining your energy and enthusiasm.


When Nothing Seems to Work

If you're feeling stuck:


  • Review and update your resume

  • Try a new job search strategy

  • Take a short course to add skills

  • Reach out to your network for advice

  • Consider temporary or freelance work

  • Volunteer in your field


Sometimes, the best opportunities come when you're willing to pivot or try something new.



Use these keywords in your resume and cover letter


The Bottom Line

Remember this: every successful professional you admire has been exactly where you are right now. The only difference between those who succeed and those who don't is persistence. Your job search is temporary, but the strength and resilience you're building will last your entire career.


Keep going. Your next opportunity is out there, and you will find it. Some of the best jobs come when you least expect them, so focus on getting a little better each day. That's how you turn job search faith into job search success.



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©2024 by Allucere Coaching LLC

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