What is it about a job search that takes the wind out of a person’s sails? If you’ve been lying low for any reason, or even if you’ve been trying hard but getting discouraged at your job search, now’s the time to start fresh. Here are a few thoughts to help get you going.
● Stop focusing on what could go wrong in your search or in a new job, and start thinking of all the ways this could go well.
● Don’t hold yourself back by worrying about age bias. Yes, of course employers may discriminate. But what if that’s the furthest thing from their minds and you come in with a chip on your shoulder? You need to start each conversation with optimism.
● Don’t hold onto past jobs as the model for the next one. So much has changed in just the last couple of years. One of the changes may have been a decline in wages for your industry. If so, that’s bad news, but it won’t help to stay out of the game waiting for someone who pays more.
● Allow yourself to consider jobs that just pay the bills, and a lifestyle that is centered on something other than work. It’s hard to say this, but for some people, the career-building stage of life may need to go on hold.
● Play this game to win. Don’t dabble at a job search and then get discouraged when the results are lackluster. Decide: Are you going to get a job or aren’t you? If no, then stop searching and spend your time more fruitfully. But if yes, then get this task done so you can go on with your life.
● Re-energize yourself. Maybe you need better skills, a better set of contacts or a better image. Whether it’s a new degree or just a new haircut, figure out what’s going to give you fresh energy for this process.
● Embrace the future. Sound like a cliché? Many good ideas do. If embracing the future means choosing a strategic path away from what you used to think was your destiny, so be it. The recent economic situation has turned a lot of plans upside down. You’ll be in good company if you have to reinvent your career or the place your career holds in your life.
Ascension University — Source Material