Is your job search just not working?

Let’s not panic!

There are a lot of ways to stage an intervention for a failing job search.

Here are some of my go to strategies for clients that are struggling.

Take a break from the job search.

I truly believe that this is one of the most important things that you can do while on a long job search: take care of yourself. This means not spending every free moment scouring the internet for job postings.

Being in the wrong job is stressful and exhausting. And I know what it’s like to really need to make more money so I don’t want to minimize that feeling at all.

Taking a break is really about giving yourself permission to do other things that you enjoy, that restore your energy, and that relax you. Honestly, these activities will give you more energy and to tackle your job search.

This time out can really help you produce better quality work, make better decisions, and energize you to leverage your connections.

Assess the obstacles in your job search.

Take a step back and try to assess what’s working and what’s not working.

• Have you really been applying for jobs…or have you been looking at job postings?

• Have you gotten a lot of interviews, but not a lot of call backs?

• Have you not gotten any interviews?

Each one of these is a different kind of problem that requires a different kind of intervention.

If you’re truly procrastinating on applying for jobs, spend some time thinking about why.

We have our clients aim to apply for 4-8 roles over 4-8 weeks - and most see results within that time frame.

Do you feel unprepared to apply for jobs in a new field? Not finding anything that feels like a great fit? What’s getting in your way? Are you afraid your next job will be as stressful as your current one?

Different bottlenecks require different responses - so identifying where you’re stuck will often help you decide what to do next.

Change up your job search strategies.

Applying for jobs online is an important strategy - not your only option.

Employ your friends and family in your job search. Let them know what you’re looking for and ask them to keep an eye out for anything that might be a good fit.

Joining professional associations, asking your friends and colleagues for introductions, and reaching out to new people can yield helpful information, too!

Ask for an informational interview

If you’re not getting much in the way of feedback from places that you’re applying to, why not see if a hiring manager will consider an informational interview?

These opportunities can give you a sense of what they’re looking for.

Pay attention for skills, experiences, and attributes that are important to them (and then, of course, make sure you re-craft all future resumes and cover letters accordingly!). This can be a great strategy if you’re looking to break into a new field and/or you want to work at a specific organization.

This kind of interview isn’t about you selling yourself. It’s about asking for feedback and advice, building a relationship, and providing insights for your career transitions.

Take pride in your process

This is way easier said than done but hear me out on this.

If you’re really looking for fulfillment, you don’t have to wait for your next job. You can volunteer, paint, write and find ways to challenge yourself now.

Or if you want to take the next step in your industry, start a blog or host your own networking event to demonstrate leadership.

If you want to leave the corporate world for something more creative or purpose driven, find ways to do that now.

There are so many ways you can keep learning and growing and providing value to the world.

If there is something you want to be doing, try to find a way to do it now, even if it’s in a small way.

Resources for your job search

Of course, if you’re struggling, we’re here for you! Hope on our mailing list to hear about our upcoming virtual events - or check out our services for job seekers here.