I know how daunting and exhausting looking for a job can be. Nevertheless, you need to set your uncertainty and doubt aside to achieve positive outcomes. When looking for a new job, take the time to apply for each position with patience and care. This means customizing your materials to stand out and expressing why you’re the perfect fit for the job. This will take more time and commitment, but it will be worth it. When applying, visualize yourself, interviewing, and learning more about the position. Continue to prepare for the next steps as you wait for that call, email, or text. Throughout all interactions and the process, be positive and confident, and focus your thoughts and energy on attaining the job you desire.
Even in a good job market, securing a new position can take six to twelve months. Be patient. To help guide you, here are seven ways to unlock your potential and shift your mindset:
1. Be grateful.
You’re breathing; you’re alive. You may be angry, frustrated, and sad, but there are plenty of other things to be grateful for, so focus on what you do have. As Mahatma Gandhi stated: “I cried because I had no shoes, then I met a man who had no feet.” Each day live the attitude of gratitude and leave a positive imprint no matter where you go.
2. Focus on “the now.”
As distinctively affirmed by Eckhart Tolle, “All problems are illusions of the mind.” Be in the present moment – the now – look at what you can do. This means refraining from future scenario planning and getting yourself worked up about things outside of your control. Focus on what’s in your control, like applying for additional jobs, reaching out to your network for suggestions, and investing in your growth and development to build other skills to differentiate you from the competition.
3. Increase your confidence.
You must be confident and believe in yourself. This means practicing for the interviews in advance of getting selected. Prepare your case studies and stories, so you’re ready when you do get that call. You need to exude confidence to convince others you’re the right fit. People respond to how you treat yourself. Here are five ways you can increase your confidence in an authentic manner.
4. Overcome resistance.
It’s easy to become deflated during the job search and interview process. Other candidates may be chosen over you. That’s okay. Use the situation as learning. Reflect on what you can do differently next time. Ask yourself if you really wanted that job, and did you give the process your best. Throughout life, there will be tests and detours. The more we understand how we react to adverse situations, the more we can notice reoccurring themes and triggers, and face our obstacles head-on. Don’t give up. Here are some ways that have helped me break through challenges and get back on track.
5. Be open.
Take a different approach if things aren’t turning out the way you want them. Be open to a job opportunity that you might have previously declined. It may not be your ideal job but could be a stepping-stone to something better. Ask for feedback from recruiters or hiring managers to understand why you weren’t contacted or chosen. Be open to learning and adapting. As Charles Swindoll stated, “We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so, it is with you… we are in charge of our Attitudes.”
6. Develop new skills.
If you’re noticing that there are specific job requirements or skills that you don’t have, look to learn them. You can teach yourself through YouTube tutorials, taking classes, or ask a colleague to mentor you. Recruiters and hiring managers are starved for individuals who are willing to roll-up their sleeves and adjust. If you’re struggling with online technology, there are proven practices that can enrich your virtual conversations and improve your overall interpersonal communication skills. These tips originate from the common premise that, as humans, we want to feel listened to, heard, and validated. Start practicing now, so you’re ready to do a video interview or a Zoom call.
7. Think small, accomplish big.
Take small steps in the direction you want to go. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Document your case studies. Practice responding to interview questions. Reach out to your network for help. Share with them what you’re looking to accomplish. For example, they may have a connection and can pass along your application, or they know someone who works for a company that you’re interested in. Dedicate the energy and time, be open and positive. It may take time but stay committed. I’ve learned that if you just start and let go, things will begin to flow if you’re determined. Patience is key. Keep in the back of your mind, Johann von Goethe’s axiom, “Courage is the commitment to begin without any guarantee of success.”
Applying for a job, interviewing, and preparing your materials to stand out is a strategic undertaking. Take a look at this article to make sure you’re applying your best.