Job searching can be a challenge so it’s important that you stay motivated. Make sure you start each day feeling positive and set yourself achievable goals. There are also plenty of people that can offer support, including family, friends or your university career service.
You’ve scoured endless job listings, tailored all your cover emails, gone to virtual career fairs, updated your LinkedIn profile and sent in your job applications. But it’s day 40 in your job search and the only thing you have to show for your efforts is a pile of rejection emails.
So how do you stay motivated and focussed on that light at the end of the tunnel? There are a few simple things you can do which will make sure that you’ll keep going until you secure your dream job. Here are our tips on how to stay motivated during your job search.
- Start your day off on the right note
The way that you start your day often shapes how the rest of it will flow so after a good night’s rest so you can recharge, set an alarm so that you can make the most of the higher levels of productivity that you will have in the mornings. Having a good breakfast and perhaps some gentle exercise will prepare you for the day ahead. Try to establish a daily routine including start times, job search sessions and breaks so that you can quickly settle into a routine.
- Set yourself some daily goals
Each morning, think about what you want to achieve that day and list these out in a number of realistic goals. These can then be checked off and also provide the structure that you need to stay on track towards achieving the end goal of securing your job. Remember, you don’t need to stick to these, if something isn’t working then you can adapt it slightly.
- Map out exactly what you are looking for
Organise your job search by listing a few points down relating to exactly what you are looking for. With this list you will be better able to tailor your search to your exact needs. Identify the most important criteria that you have such as what type of company you would like to apply for and the location where you would like to work.
- Find the right work/life balance
It can be easy to become so immersed in the process that you almost forget to take a break! Therefore if you reach some of your daily goals then take a break. Perhaps, taking the evening off to catch up with friends or taking a slightly longer break during the day. Music is also good for boosting your mood so try listening to a personalised playlist so that you can switch off during these periods and regroup in time for the next session.
- Make the most of your support networks
If the search becomes slightly overwhelming, have some time off with your family and friends who will be able to support you and offer advice on how to move forward. Friends who are also going through the same thing will also be able to share tips with you or could perhaps put in a word for you if their organisation is hiring. Finally, your University careers service are used to helping students during their job search and will have a number of resources and advice to help you progress.
- Stay Positive
If you encounter a setback, remember that some of the reasons could be beyond your control. Try to turn this situation to your advantage by asking for feedback. This will help you to identify the things that you need to work on in time for your next application. If you are having a particularly quiet day in terms of (positive) responses, it could that you need to alter your strategy. Think back to your most recent successes and ultimately remember that the right job is out there for you and to keep going.
Remember starting the search is a challenge but maintaining the high levels of motivation throughout the search will mean the difference between securing a graduate job sooner rather than later. Staying positive and pushing through are the best qualities to keep you motivated and it will be worth it once you come to start your first day in your new job!