If you’ve been job hunting for a while, you might be feeling a little discouraged. If your job search has become stagnant, you may begin to lose focus, productivity, and even confidence.
Don’t let lags in your job hunt get you down. Use these tips to refocus your job search and avoid burnout.
7 Tips to improve your job search
Does it feel like your job search is losing momentum? Try these steps to refocus and find the job you want.
Choose a career path
At any age, it can be hard to figure out what you want to do. But, choosing a career path can help you with your job search.
You may be willing to do a lot of different kinds of jobs, but channeling your time and energy into one career path can help you focus. Think about your skills and desires in a job environment. Set aside time each day to search and apply for jobs related to the career path you’ve chosen.
Do research
A long job hunt can put you on autopilot. You go through the motions of applying for jobs and answering the same interview questions, only to never hear back from employers. This may be because you’ve stopped paying attention to the details and are moving too quickly from one opportunity to the next.
Take time to research where you want to work. Look at your resume and cover letter to be sure they are free of errors and reflect a strong job candidate.
Research the companies you want to apply for and be ready to talk about them during the interview process. Showing that you pay attention to details will help you stand out to employers.
Understand your qualifications
One reason your job search might drag on is that you are applying for jobs that do not match your qualifications. It can be tempting to apply for every open position that even remotely relates to your experience. But, this can often be a waste of time and energy.
Instead, evaluate your skills and look for positions that align with the required qualifications. Put more time into positions that truly reflect both your experience and goals.
Take a break
This may sound counterintuitive, but taking breaks can actually be good for your job search. We need time to rest and refuel. Stepping away from the job hunt for a short period can give you the energy you need to push forward.
Schedule a break from your job search and use that time to do things you enjoy. Spend time with loved ones, pick up an old hobby, or get some projects done around the house. Once the time period is over, be sure to get back on track with a refocused attitude.
Get social
Your dream job may not be posted on the internet – that’s why you need to get out and network. Networking with professionals can help you find job openings via word of mouth, and maybe even build relationships with people who can help get you in the door. To learn more about networking, check out our article on networking tips for older job seekers.
Grow your skills
If you find yourself having a hard time landing a job, you may need to hone in on certain skills. All jobs require some level of skillsets and vary depending on the industry. And, some skills are fairly universal, such as customer service and interpersonal skills.
There are many free and low-cost resources throughout the community to help you improve your professional skills. Start with your local library and colleges and look for classes, workshops, and mentors to help you.
If you are 55 years or older and live in one of the 38 Ohio counties VANTAGE serves, you may be eligible for the Senior Community Service Employment Program. Once enrolled, you work at a paid, hands-on training position that matches your career goals and earn industry-recognized certifications.
Being smart and strategic about how you search for jobs can save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run. Knowing what you want to do and having a plan to get there will help you target ideal job opportunities and reach your career goals.
Interested in learning more about VANTAGE’s job training program to help job seekers re-enter the workforce? Check the map to find your local office or call 1-800-762-5335 with questions.
*The information in this article is intended solely to provide general information on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who accepts full responsibility for its use. This article should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional legal, medical, or other competent advisors.
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