Everywhere I go, people talk about the awful state of the economy. Uncertainty has crept into our small-talk conversations, and instead of the weather, we’re discussing layoffs, unemployment and other financial and personal hardships.
Job seekers are apprehensive and scared. Instead of focusing on their goals, some fret and complain about things that they can’t control. However, in all of this bad news, there is good news as well. I talk to job hunters every day, people at all stages of the job-search process. Yes, some have been laid off. But others have scheduled job interviews over the next couple of weeks. Still others are negotiating salary and benefits, and accepting job offers for great positions that will begin early next year.
It’s true that the job market has changed. It’s more competitive. But it’s still a job market, which means that organizations continue to examine the pool of qualified candidates, and make hiring decisions based on their needs. Yes, companies still have needs. Act accordingly.
Too many job seekers allow their emotions to rule their employment efforts. Big mistake. Fear can stop a successful job search in its tracks. Depression can squeeze the life out of a dynamic career, if you let it.
There’s a common phrase that goes like this: “Don’t just sit there, do something!” If you want a new job, you need to do something. You must take steps on your own behalf.
And yet, every time you let fear or another volatile emotion get a hold of you, you lose momentum. In essence, you are clearing the way for less anxious job candidates to take your place in the front of the line.
If you feel worried about the job market, economy or anything else, and you find yourself distracted to the point of inactivity, snap out of it. You’re wasting time. As I mentioned, the job market is extremely competitive right now. There are lots of people looking for work, so you have to be more assertive, more confident and more diligent in your efforts. You have to keep moving.
I see it as removing the “e” out of “emotion.” Let the feelings go, and move on to the next item on your job search list. Not sure where to begin? Get back to basics. Prepare a killer resume. Write an engaging cover letter. Research a local company. Practice for tricky interview questions. Learn skills to boost your value in the workplace, or explore a completely new trade. Contact a recruiter or hiring manager. Follow up. Perform each step again and again. Give each one your full attention. Don’t stop.
While you’re at it, I suggest one more strategy to catapult your job search to the next level. Network. That’s right. Head out into the world and meet people. Even if you’re shy. Even if your palms sweat. Even if you aren’t sure what to say.
Now, more than ever, you need people to know about your talents. Tell them about your goals and attributes. Market yourself warmly and professionally, so they refer you to their employers and friends.
Leave your bashfulness at home with the heavy emotions. You can go back to being shy, scared and passive in a less-competitive job market. But for the time being, get to work.
Send your job search questions to Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
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