If you’ve been enduring a lengthy job search, don’t get too down. Learn how to survive a lengthy job search. Discover new job search techniques and alter some of those you are already using. Too many job seekers get frustrated and abandon their search in favor of returning to school, settling for an unfavorable job.
A job search takes time, and if you remain dedicated and energetic in your hunt, it’s bound to pay off.
Below are some tips on sticking out your job search and giving your job search that needed boost.
1. Network:
An essential job search tool is your network of contacts. Draw on every contact’s assistants, not just for job leads but for introductions to relevant individuals working at certain companies. Use your network to get the word out that you are looking for a new position. Utilize employment offices, professional associations, fellow job seekers, and social and career networking sites like LinkedIn and Twitter.
2. Broaden Your Search Techniques:
Try not to get too safe or comfortable in your job search by utilizing the same search techniques. A job search will require you to get out of your comfort zone and try some things that may make you nervous.
For instance, it may be time to try some other ways to get in touch with employers. You can ask employers for informational interviews, where you can discuss industry trends, or you can conduct cold calls. A cold call is when you call hiring authorities that you don’t know and ask them if you can meet with them, even if they haven’t advertised an open position.
3. Be Flexible:
To be successful in your job search, you may be required to be more flexible than you may like. This may mean putting aside your dreams of working for your ideal company in a role with loads of perks.
You may have to wrap your head around taking an entry-level job with fewer perks, lower salary, and fewer benefits. Another option is looking for work outside of your city or state. Considering moving to a hotter job market could make the difference in landing a good job.
4. Consider Part-Time or Casual Work:
If you’ve been in your job search for quite a while, it may be a good idea to consider part-time or contract work. This will help you to make ends meet, can give you networking opportunities, and give you more work to put on your resume, showing employers that you’ve made the most of your time while on the job hunt.
Who knows that maternity leave placement or internship could lead to full-time employment down the road.
5. Think Outside the Box:
If you have an entrepreneurial side, why not consider going into business for yourself? If you can’t find your perfect job, make it for yourself! Or, if you don’t want to take the entrepreneurial leap, why not consider a self-employed contract or consulting work? Although you may not want to continue down this path forever, it again can be a great way to network and get yourself exposed to other companies and even other industries.
What methods have you used to get you through a long job search? Comment and share below! If you need additional help, reach out to Candace for assistance!