Everett, Wash.
Published: Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Key to finding a job: Stay positive

By Eve Nicholas

 Finding a new job takes persistence. It also requires patience, commitment and a positive attitude that just won't quit. But not every job seeker has an abundance of these qualities. Even the most easygoing, optimistic people feel frustrated by unanswered phone calls, mixed messages from employers, and extended wait times between interviews.

The longer your job hunt lasts, the easier it is to slip into negative emotions such as worry and fear. If you want to land a new position quickly, you must push these feelings aside. Having a bad day is one thing. Letting it drag you down is something else. Employers look for confident, enthusiastic people to join their teams. Negativity can tumble an otherwise successful job search to the ground.

There's an old saying that goes something like this: When you fall down, pick yourself up. I suggest a more proactive approach: Don't let yourself fall down.

Even if you send out a thousand resumes (which I do not recommend, by the way) and attend dozens of networking events, you will still face tough days. It's not the economy's fault. And, if you continue to refine your presentation, and start to contact employers in a more researched and deliberate way, it's not your fault either. It's the nature of employment searching. Let it be.

The key is to anticipate the highs and lows. Prepare for them, and they will never knock you off your feet. Here are a few tips that may help:

  • Check in with yourself. Your emotions will tell you if something needs to change. Do you feel excited? Eager to move forward? Great. Keep doing what you're doing. Just remember take a breather now and then so you can stay energized.

    On the other hand, are you bored? Frustrated? Dragging your feet? Take a break right away, before you burn out. See a movie. Read a mystery novel. For the time being, set aside everything related to your career. Relax, lighten up, and play.

  • Return to your plan. The trick to a steady job hunt is to focus on the process, not the outcome. Of course, your efforts are intended to land a rewarding job as fast as possible. But you'll feel better if you concentrate on the present rather than the future.

    Add structure to your job search by reserving a certain amount of time each day for job seeking activities like resume writing and researching companies. Create a step-by-step plan, and return to it whenever your emotions get the best of you.

  • Connect with people. Serious job hunters know that the majority of opportunities are filled through direct referrals. The more you network, the better your chances of landing a job. However, too much networking can drain your energy, causing you to lose your professional edge.

    Balance your interpersonal relationships between business contacts and the other people in your life. Family. Friends. While you're at it, enjoy the company of animals as well. Walk the dog. Throw toys to the cat. Head to the park and watch the birds. Surround yourself with healthy relationships (both people and animals). They'll steady you, give you perspective, and prevent you from falling down.

    Send your job search questions to Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
    © 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA