Preventing Job Search Burnout
Question:
I've been unemployed for a while and I'm ready to give up. Just the thought of job searching makes me sick to my stomach. While my friends and family are trying to be supportive, I find myself lashing out if/when they ask me how my job search is going. I look for jobs all day and nothing is working out. What am I doing wrong?
Answer:
It's understandable to feel like throwing in the towel when you've been putting so much energy into job searching and not landing a job. It sounds like you are burnt out from job searching and you may need to take a break. It is especially hard trying to job search around the holiday season as most people might feel less motivated, job postings seem to be scarce for non-seasonal job openings, and the hiring process begins to slow down. And due to the economic times, you might feel pressured to continue your job search since unemployment benefits may have been exhausted or returned to their normal amount, which may not be enough to cover bills. However, this may be a time to recoup, as COVID-19 cases are on the rise and a potential shut-down could happen.
Here are 7 tips to consider to prevent job search burnout and prepare for the new year.
Create A Manageable Job Search Routine
You may be under the misconception that if you just spent more hours job searching, you'll find a job sooner….but that isn't the case. While job searching is a full-time job, limiting your actual job search hours to 3-4 hours a day will allow you to maintain a healthy mindset. Just like a regular job, you want to set up a routine where you select the hours you will be the most productive during the work week and try not to job search on the weekends. Additionally, choose a job search space that will be more conducive to applying to jobs - not on the couch or on the bed. Also, try to set the mood by having things in your workspace that are uplifting - like an inspirational board or maybe your favorite music or podcast in the background.
Get Up And Wind Down
Remember, just like any other job you need to move around, so it's okay to take 5-15 minute breaks during your designated job search hours. It's a good way to refresh yourself quickly and reduce eye strain and relax your muscles. Even if you feel the urge to job search all day that might not be the best plan as it's actually counterproductive. Our brains don’t function at maximum capacity if we do monotonous activities all day, so plan activities where you can move around, meditate, or do something else that recharges you.
Stay Connected
If you've been reading this blog, you know that networking and finding a job search support system is crucial, especially during this time. If you have not already done so, really consider joining an online job search group, professional organization, or identify a job search buddy (or buddies) that will provide support and keep you motivated. Not only will this help you feel less isolated, it's a good way to discuss any challenges, generate ideas, connect to resources, and network.
Reward Yourself
In addition to creating a manageable job search routine, hopefully, you'll set one or two manageable goals a week to keep yourself on track. The reason why many job seekers experience burn out is that the end goal of a job search is finding a job, which can take months or longer, eventually affecting your self-esteem and motivation. Create attainable goals that will feel rewarding throughout the process. Some examples include applying to 2-3 jobs a week, watching a webinar about improving your job search skills, or participating in a networking event.
“It’s easy to stress out when you are not hearing back from employers as you begin to personalize the experience and assume that something is wrong with you. Remind yourself that your unemployment status isn’t a true reflection of your self-worth and doesn’t reflect your abilities as a solid employee. ”
Be Prepared
Nothing is more frustrating than finding a job that you feel is well suited for you only to see that there is a time limit to apply. Before jumping into your job search, make sure your resume is up to date with the correct contact information and job dates/duties. It's a lot easier to target your resume to the job description when it's already updated as it will reduce the time you spend applying to a job overall. Additionally, make sure your references are up to date as well by reaching out to your references and confirming that you can still use them and their contact information is still correct.
Reassess Your Strategy
If you are applying to jobs and aren't getting any interviews after a month, you may need to reevaluate your strategy. Make sure you are applying for jobs that fit your skills and experience, with no spelling or grammatical errors in your job application materials, and be certain you are targeting your cover letter and resume. If you are getting interviews but not offers, find someone to do practice interviews and check your online presence to make sure there's nothing on there an employer wouldn't want to see.
Let Go Of A Negative Mindset
It's easy to stress out when you are not hearing back from employers as you begin to personalize the experience and assume that something is wrong with you. Remind yourself that your unemployment status isn't a true reflection of your self-worth and doesn't reflect your abilities as a solid employee. Unfortunately, we are not able to control the hiring process, let alone the hiring determination. The best thing you can do after each job submission is to let go of any expectations and move onto the next application. As long as you have put forth your best effort in selling yourself on your job application, the right employer will contact you. It’s only a matter of time! Don’t give up.