Job Search Motivation and How to Keep Going

Finding a job can be one of the most stressful tasks in adult life. There is often a lot riding on it and the longer the job hunt lasts, the more stressful it becomes.

Given all the hurdles to overcome, it can be difficult to stay motivated to find a job. No one wants to spend weeks on end searching for their next job, but sometimes that can become a reality. However, there are several things to keep in mind when seeking employment that can give you that added bit of motivation.

Finding a job is not easy but the following list of tips should help you find more motivation for job hunting.

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Getting Started: What is motivating your job search?

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No matter what the task at hand is, getting started is usually the trickiest part. The bigger the task, the more daunting and overwhelming getting started is--but it doesn't have to be that way.

Lay down the framework before diving straight into your job search and it will be far more efficient and you'll be able to maintain motivation for longer. Establish exactly what sort of role you are after, get your portfolio, resume, and cover letters in order, and be structured in your search.

If you are not sure how to get started, there should be plenty of relevant tips for your line of work on the internet. Find out how other professionals in your field prepared for their respective new job searches and learn the ways you can prepare.

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Being Prepared

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Whether it's an application, a phone call, or a full-on job interview, always be as prepared as you can. You can cut down the length of your job search by being prepared and landing the first good opportunity that comes along.

Just because it may be your first time, doesn't mean it has to be merely a learning experience for your next application. There are plenty of ways you can give yourself a better chance of landing that new job. Do your research, prepare your notes, and do your homework - being prepared is half the battle when it comes to putting your case together for a job.

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Facing Rejection: How do I find motivation?

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When it comes to a job search, rejection is unfortunately just part of it. We all have to go through it at one point or another, but it's how you respond to it that is most important.

Rejection can be demotivating, but do not let that stop you in your job search or reduce your motivation for a job. Reassess where you may have gone wrong and use that as motivation to improve your application for the next job.

It could be the case that you did all you could possibly have done but the chosen candidate was just more qualified for the position. If this becomes a pattern, consider applying for roles you are more qualified for or finding a way to beef up your resume so that you are the best candidate for the position.

Sometimes rejection isn't so black and white. Many job seekers are left waiting for a response that never comes. This form of rejection can be even tougher to take, but it is something you will need to be resilient with. Maintaining your motivation in job hunts is key, so don't lose hope.

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Changing Approach

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If you find yourself facing constant rejection and not making any progress in your job search, it may be time to change your approach. Take a step back and consider what you are doing. What's going well? What's not working?

Try changing some of your methods - maybe look on different job boards, perhaps edit your resume, and consider searching for a slightly different role.

Whatever it is you choose to do, make sure you can justify why a certain change will help you. Changing things for the sake of it will get you nowhere, so take the time to understand what will have a positive impact on your ability to secure a new job.

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Ask for Help

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A lot of us don't like asking for help, especially when it comes to something personal like a job search. However, there are plenty of people who can make your employment seeking a whole lot easier.

Friends and family are a great place to start. They may well know people worth talking to. They might have tips on ways to accelerate or improve your search, or they might even have an employer they can put you in contact with.

Aside from personal connections, a recruiter or hiring manager could be your next port of call. These people are solely responsible for landing other people in jobs. Reach out to them on social media. They can offer career advice and might just help you find your new job.

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Being Persistent

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The single most important quality you can have in a job search is to be persistent. Any career coach will tell you that you can't just give up at the first, second, or even sixth attempt. No one gets everything right the first time, so try to stay motivated even when your job search appears to be going nowhere.

Remember why it is that you have that motivation for employment. Keep the end goal in mind throughout the job search and try everything you possibly can until you reach that goal. If that means further education, training, or relevant experience, then consider that as a possibility.

Don't forget, career paths are rarely what we imagine them to be - sometimes taking what may feel like one step backwards could eventually enable you to take two steps forward.