Hunting for a new job is a lot of work! When you consider the time it takes to scour job sites, prepare your documents, fill in applications, and follow up with potential employers—looking for a new job is a job in itself! If you’re currently looking but feeling discouraged, it can help to follow some steps to keep your chin up and keep moving forward.
Four ways to lose the job search blues
If you stick to something long enough, your determination will pay off—but that can be hard to believe when you’re in the thick of what feels like a fruitless search. To stay motivated, follow these tips:
- Build a schedule. It can be easy to make your life all about your job search—but this isn’t good for you, or productive. Instead, set up a schedule you will follow each day, including breaks. For example, wake up and have your coffee and breakfast. Spend an hour reviewing job sites. Spend another 1-2 hours working on your resume and applying (note—it helps to wait to tailor your resume until you have an opportunity to tailor it for). Then take a break for lunch, and so on and so forth. Choose a time to end for the day and stick to it. Make a schedule that works for you that has a clear beginning and end, and includes breaks.
- Change your strategy. If what you’ve been doing has been yielding only dead ends, you’ll need to change your strategy. One of your first steps should be a clear understanding of what you’re looking for—this will make it easier to focus your efforts. It can help to talk to a job search expert (such as a recruiter) about available opportunities. You can also reach out to your network, or contact a friend or colleague for suggestions.
- If you’re starting to feel down or hopeless about your search, take a little time off and tackle a volunteer opportunity. While giving back to the community, you’ll build confidence, meet people, and possibly even learn new skills you can add to your resume. You’ll return to your job search refreshed and ready to pick back up where you left off.
- Schedule time for yourself. To prevent yourself from becoming frustrated, be sure to make time for yourself every day and week during your search. This includes regular breaks for meals and exercise every day, and even taking a day off to do something fun if you’re feeling especially disheartened. Time to relax, breathe, and refocus is an important part of the process.
Don’t give up!
The next job for you is out there—it’s just a matter of working hard until you find it. And if you’re in search of a new job in the insurance industry, check out Insurancerecruiters.com. Visit our website today to pursue open insurance industry opportunities.
