Keeping your spirits high when interviews are down.
Interviews are tough. Not getting an interview is even tougher. You can spend hours and hours just searching for jobs to apply for, then spend several more hours filling out applications. And all that work doesn’t even guarantee an interview.
It’s natural to feel down; to want to give up. But you have to dust yourself off, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the job search again. Easier said than done right? Here are a few tips to keep things moving.
Do Things You Enjoy
Don’t let every day be a 24/7 job search. Concentration and drive are great, but you can only last so long before you burn out. If you like to bake, make cookies once in a while. Watch a TV show you love or take a trip to the movies. Go see a football or basketball game. Make sure you still have a life outside of the job search.
Get Used to Hearing “No”
HR people aren’t plotting to ruin your life. They get hundreds of applications every day and have to narrow it down to a chosen few who are right for the interview. If you don’t get an interview, that just means that you weren’t right for that specific job. It’s nothing personal.
You’re going to get rejected for many of the jobs you apply for. And that’s totally okay! The job search is a marathon, not a sprint. However, every application you send in, every company you research, every step you take—everything brings you closer to getting that dream job. So, realize that you have to be in this for the long haul.
You Are Not Your Lack of a Job
You are not defined by your unemployment, and it’s alright to be stuck in the job search. Try not to be hard on yourself because employers aren’t calling you in. Remember, prospective employers don’t get to know the real you—all they see is your resume. Talk to friends, especially other friends who are also dealing with the job search. You’re not alone! Lots of folks are in the same boat. You’re doing great!
Any other questions about dealing with job search rejection? Have experiences to share? Let us know in the comments section below!
