Does your job search feel like a constant merry-go-round? Day-in and day-out, you search, apply, rinse, and repeat. After a while, it can get frustrating, confusing, or downright exhausting. So, it’s easy to see how fatigue can set in between scrolling through job search websites and sending out multiple email correspondence.
Fatigue might be a term used with physicality in mind, but the energy it takes to start, continue, and excel at a job search can bring about mental fatigue. Before the fatigue sets in, and even after it does, recognize it and overcome it by following these steps.
Step 1 – Connect with a Mentor
A mentor provides perspective when mental wherewithal might be lacking. This applies to job-searching advice and meaningful encouragement at a time when the daily grind makes you view yourself as less-than-favorable. Sometimes hearing a “keep it up” or “you deserve the job you want” is exactly what you need to replenish the energy stores, especially coming from someone you admire and trust.
Step 2 – Continue Networking
Communication doesn’t stop at the mentor, keep networking within your circle and even venture outside of it. Attend whatever networking events you can in-person or virtually. There’s nothing better to help get you re-energized about your field and recharge your job-searching drive.
Step 3 – Revamp Cover Letter & Resume
Look at whatever application materials you send out, especially if you’ve been searching for a bit. If it’s been a while since you’ve really looked at your resume or cover letter, this will give you a chance to view it with a new set of eyes. Think of any skills you’ve obtained or further information that could benefit you if added to your resume.
Step 4 – Refresh Your Approach
Go beyond your general job-searching techniques by looking at more than just position titles. Focus on specific interests you have, skills you hold, and how the current job-market status is affected by both. Are multiple professionals looking for the same type of job you are? Can you expand your searching radius or the companies you’re interested in? Do the research and put yourself in the best position to succeed.
Step 5 – Develop New Skills
When you feel like your skills or experience might not be up to par, figure out where you can develop yourself further. Not only will this tactic help make you a more marketable candidate, but it will also give you a feeling of accomplishment. And it never hurts to boost your self-confidence. Developing a new skill can be something as simple as taking a course online, attending a class in-person, or even researching the education that YouTube provides.
Step 6 – Organize Yourself
Although time-consuming, it can be helpful to record your job-searching process. Map it out or create a timeline with steps to follow and check off accomplishments along the way. This practice makes your job searching more strategic and easier to follow. The time it takes for a company to work through the hiring steps can vary. Some take weeks, others months. Following a spreadsheet can help you focus on your approach and provide a way to analyze what’s working or what’s not.
Step 7 – Take a Step Back
Finding clarity can happen when you remove yourself from a situation. You can take a break for a week, a day, or an hour, just allow yourself the time to decompress and check in with your mental state. Job searching can be stressful and emotionally straining. Stepping away can clear your head and offer the refreshing boost you need.
What helps you overcome job searching fatigue? Join the conversation on LinkedIn and check out 4 Tips for Boosting Morale at Work.
