The job market can be an absolute roller coaster of emotions these days and what is considered to be a ‘down market’. So many factors come into play these days. Dozens of interviews of for the average candidate, if you can get there right?
Statistically, the odds are not exactly in your favor! Think 15-30 interviews. Facing rejection for the majority of time, no call backs from recruiters who simply don’t have enough time to get back to each applicant. The thought of upcoming bills, filing unemployment and the the build up of the ‘job gap’ that proceeds months of nor being up to much M-F 9-5.
The feelings of compromise, and going forward with job applications far beneath our skill levels and salary expectations plague the unemployed. A bitter pill to swallow in the current market.
You might feel like just another number out there and might need to adjust your mindset into a pure ‘self marketer/sales type’ n in order to adjust.
Let’s visit the causes of the causes of rejection, coping, and turning these negative experiences into positive, successful outcomes. ar
It’s a must to be hyper aware of the competitive nature in job attainment these, keep in mind that seekers are accepting less than ideal positions for less pay and often, more work.
We can examine the current market in the next post. Let’s take a look now at the emotional impact, which can have a profound effect on one’s self view
The First and Most Obvious-Of Course
1) A Loss Of Self/Esteem An inate feeling of low self worth as a result of attending endless ‘go nowhere’ interviews, being put under the microscope Viewing one’s self like a corny Hollywood actor that’s tried out for a few too many commercials. Self doubt that will question your proven skillset and past accomplishments.
2) Massive Anxiety- The fear of rejection like you are the last one picked for kickball in 5th grade. Anxiety that carries from interview to interview, feeling like it’s impossible to let go and present your best ‘professional self’. Overthinking and hesitant during interview time and making a weird impression on Hiring Managers and potential future colleagues.
3) Depression/Hopeless Feelings- Sensing that things are never going to work out. Prolonged ‘lack of purpose’ thoughts
4) Going Broke- Accepting miniscule unemployment payments and not being able to do anything else. The obvious financial difficulties of underemployment that don’t need to be explained.
Effective Strategies to Cope with the Prolonged Job Search
- Attitude Is Everything. Remember to stay positive, it’s all just a numbers game after all. keep in mind job markets are cyclic, and things might not be favorable at this very moment. Things do change. Take advantage and explore different job boards other than the most obvious and remember to network.
- Reach Out for Feedback- I worked in recruiting for over a decade and would love it when a rejected candidate reached out to me for tips on how to get better. I always gave them an honest answer, sometimes it’s just a matter of a few interview tweaks and simple but subjective ‘mistakes’ made by the job candidate. You might be under/overqualified or not a ‘cultural fit’ or any number of passable traits. Look into some honest feedback, a nice recruiter will take a few minutes with you…..
- Develop New Skills- You might notice a ‘preferred qualification’ on job descriptions that appeal to your current needs. Consider additional certificates, sharpen up current skills as well. Look busy, active and professionally pragmatic
- Networking- The most obvious, network even when you have an optimal position. Reach out to your current network and remember the best opportunities are the ones less known.
- Strive for Professional Realism– Stick to applying to roles you qualify for. Please don’t apply to positions outside of your expertise, make it attainable.
- Build a Linkedin Presence-Book an appointment with me and find out!
- Keep a Job Search Journal: Document your job search journey, including your successes and rejections. This journal can provide valuable insights and serve as a source of motivation.