It’s no secret that we’re living in unprecedented times. With the world economy on edge, there is talk of layoffs and a recession. If you’re looking for a job, the process often seems absolutely exhausting. It can be hard to stay motivated. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help your job search if you’ve been laid off. Here are 5 job hunting rules that actually work.
Rule #1: Don’t Freak Out
We know…easier said than done, right? When you receive notice of a layoff, your first thoughts are,” What am I going to do? What do I tell my family? What will people think? How will I survive?” Take a deep breath. Go home and chill out for a while. Have an “ugly” cry. Write a letter to your old boss about how you feel. (Just don’t send it!) Watch mindless TV. Stare into space. Whatever you choose to do, take some time to relax.
If you panic, and frantically start looking for a job without a good game plan, you’ll be desperate. Hiring managers pick up on the “please hire me, I’ll do anything” vibe immediately. Would you rather hire the enthusiastic guy who is poised in the interview, or the one who just wants a job, any job? If the hiring manager senses you’re not committed to the company or you’re just there for a paycheck, you won’t get hired. So allow yourself the time to mentally prepare for your job search.
Rule #2: Take Care of Essentials…and Yourself
Once you’re relatively calm, apply for unemployment as soon as possible. Review your expenses and determine the bare minimum you need to survive each month. Can family members help out? You may need to look into a side hustle or freelance gigs to have additional income streams. There is absolutely no shame in this. You’re trying to do what you can, which is smart.
You can also get assistance from various agencies or charities if you qualify. Don’t be afraid to call creditors and explain your circumstances. They may be willing to modify terms. It doesn’t hurt to try.
Statistically, the average person changes careers at least eight times. The chances are good that you know someone who lost a job. Remember, you got hired once; you’ll get hired again.
In the meantime, set a realistic budget and work in a little fun. A daily walk keeps you healthy. And the little things – talking with your spouse, spending more time with your kids, reading a good book – are more valuable than material things.
Rule #3: Write Down What You’re Good At
After you’ve cleared your head a bit, take stock of your career. What stands out? Have you been promoted? Managed others? Led a huge project? Did you go above and beyond to help a customer? Be proud of yourself and what you can do. Ask loved ones what they think you’re good at. The answers may surprise you.
Write it all down.
Everything you’ve done adds up and makes you unique. Out of 7+ billion people on Earth, there is nobody else in the world like you. Use that perspective to get and stay motivated while job hunting. Realize your worth and own your value.
Rule #4: Network, Network, Network
Online search engines like Indeed are great tools. That said, at least 80% of jobs aren’t advertised, and more than 90% of recruiters are using social media to source and screen applicants. A mix of networking and technical savvy is crucial to an effective job search.
Reach out to anyone who knows anyone who can help you out. Perhaps Uncle Joe can introduce you to his boss, who needs someone with skills you have. Maybe you can talk to a friend or former colleague and catch up. They can help you stay motivated, as well..
The key to networking is offering a way to help, too. Don’t expect something for nothing. Do you know any LinkedIn connections you can refer them to? Could you offer valuable insights?
The bottom line: the way to stay motivated while job hunting is to connect with as many people as possible. So while it’s okay to retreat (see Rule #1), don’t become a hermit. The fastest way to lose motivation is isolation.
Rule #5: Do Your Homework
Do yourself a favor and be prepared to interview. Many people think the interview process is only in-person. However, today’s hiring process typically starts with a phone screen interview, and often the “in person” interview is a video interview.
In the initial phone screening, the recruiter wants to know about your skills, availability, and salary requirements. Don’t blow off the phone screen! There are ways to answer these questions. (See our handy blogs on that, here.)
Once you land a formal interview, research the company. What is their mission? What are they known for? How can your skills and experience help them grow? Is there a particular problem the hiring manager is trying to fix?
A great way to prepare for formal interviews is to practice answering anticipated questions. Do a mock interview in front of those you trust, like a former supervisor, mentor, or colleague. Ask them to give you honest feedback. This helps you stay motivated to improve your performance.
Managers want to know they’re hiring a talented individual with the right combination of skills and personality for the team and company. Do you have examples of your best work? Bring them to the interview. Can you demonstrate a solution to solve an issue? Diagram it on the whiteboard. Smile, look the interviewer in the eye, and enjoy the conversation. Engage and ask questions. Send a thank you note afterwards and politely keep in touch.
One Last Rule: You Are Not Your Job
Following the above rules works for our clients, and for those who need a professional boost, career coaching and resume services are a huge help.
Sometimes, however, job hunting is harder than we think. If you find you just can’t stay motivated while job hunting or are struggling to manage day to day living, there is help. Licensed mental health professionals provide strategies for coping with the emotional distress that often accompanies being unemployed.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline for help at 1-800-273-8255.