Getting into the Job Search Mindset

Job loss is probably not a part of your life plan. Between COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and an uncertain economy, you may not have been prepared for this unpredictable situation. It’s time to get back out there and sell yourself, but how? When it comes to the job hunt, many have feelings of uncertainty, instability, and humility. It can be described as discombobulating and uncontrollable, and you may sabotage job search efforts before you even begin looking.

Your mindset can greatly impact your job hunt and impact your interactions with others as you are applying for jobs, interviewing, networking, and more. As we navigate through these uncertain times, it's a good idea to refocus when it comes to your qualifications and the skillsets employers want and need from potential candidates. Changing your mindset may stir some creativity and authenticity in you, throughout each phase of your search – which may help you stand out along the way.

A job search doesn’t have to be a negative experience, but to get started, it's important to take responsibility for your attitude. During your search, you are likely to have positive experiences, such as: the opportunity to meet new people, discover exciting opportunities you may not have otherwise, and create new goals for yourself. Remember to stay positive as you trek through this transition.

Harboring a negative outlook and being distracted during your job search can reduce productivity and stunt your own personal growth. It can be uncomfortable to dive in if you are outside your comfort zone or it's something you haven't done in a while. So how can you overcome the fear of putting yourself back in the competitive job market?

• Eat the frog. As Mark Twain once said, “If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.” This approach helps prevent procrastination and increase further productivity once the difficult task is out of the way. To get started, compile a list of to-dos and then complete the task you have zero motivation to do first. Set a reward to incentivize yourself and you'll feel accomplished after you complete it.
• Get support. Involve yourself in a job search group or have a buddy hold you accountable in your efforts. Reach out to family and friends to let them know you need extra support through this challenging time in your life. Having people on your side helps tasks feel more manageable.
• Be involved and proactive. Network with your peers, add marketable skills by attending classes, training, and webinars, or leverage contacts on social media, especially LinkedIn. It further enhances your qualifications and can change your attitude when it comes to the process. It’s not easy. Some say that finding the job is a job, so it’s important to schedule time on your calendar to complete the tasks required to find a new position.

Next, learn what the potential employers are looking for in a candidate. When it comes down to it, employers want candidates with a great attitude, who are problem-solvers, and are passionate about what they do. These attributes are important to employers as they are looking for applicants who are authentic, and willing to become a a productive contributor to their company. Leveraging your personal brand is necessary for your unique selling proposition, which includes your: experience, value, strengths, and education. It’s important to have a statement readily available that includes your true characteristics and traits. Think about it like your own commercial.

Lastly, it's important to trust the process. Start with the end in mind and define your action steps through the process. Look at your application from a different perspective and ask yourself, would you hire you? Change your mindset from, what can this company do for me, but what can I do for this company? Look at where you want to go and use your resources in a systematic way for support, direction, and encouragement to achieve your goals.  

As you navigate through your search, the best thing you can do is look at it as a new chapter. One phone call, one email, or one conversation can change your life.

Information provided in this article comes from our Take Your Job Search to the X-Level Webinar Series. You can watch the recording of this session here.