If you think a job search is a game, it becomes more fun.
I used to think, well I got a no. I got to the interview stage but didn’t get the job. I used to think no = sadness. Not anymore. No = 10 opportunities. I don’t expect to find the perfect job right away. I’m set with this temping thing for now until I figure out a better opportunity. It offers me the flexibility to continue to interview and attend networking events.
In the career workshop with Executive Coach Trisha Scudder, we covered some of that negative self talk such as:
“I’m not good enough.” “There are tons of people more qualified.” “I can’t even get an interview.” “I’m not doing anything right.” “It’s not worth it.”
Throw it away. Toss it out. It’s poison. In a job search you only need copious amounts of energy and maybe vitamin C and caffeine to keep you healthy and energized.
Find your thing. Yes you want a job. I want a job. EVERYONE wants a job. Even if you have a job, you might want a different job. Fine, but a job is a job. Find that ONE THING (or two) that keep you excited and invested in the job search.
So, if your goal ultimately is to travel all the time or to start a support group or to retire at age XX, write it down. But it has to be powerful because otherwise, it’s not going to motivate you to achieve massive success.
Next, find an answer to the question: “What are you looking for?” Come up with a succinct phrase to answer this question since you will be faced with it ALL THROUGHOUT THE JOB SEARCH. At bars, at events etc. Be prepared with an answer and not a sob story about why you are looking for a job or are unemployed.
I love what Trisha said about the job search is like boiling water. It’s so true. It doesn’t bubble right away. You add more flame. Still no bubbles. You wait. No bubbles. Then you give up and turn the heat off. You could get discouraged if you aren’t getting any bites in the job search. DON’T. The bubbles come after TIME. Then it BOILS. If you turn off the flame and walk away, you won’t get there. Keep that flame going!
So figure out your plan of attack. Whether it be having conversations, informational interviews, attending networking events, sending emails, making cold calls etc. Whatever it is — do it consistently and hold yourself accountable.
Thanks, Trisha for all of your inspiration and help!