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Staying Positive While Job Hunting

Written by: RICS Recruit
Published on: 11 Apr 2018

Positive while job hunting

Job hunting can often feel like an endless process, with many hours spent finding and applying for roles. When you’re not seeing results from your search, then, it can be disheartening – but don’t forget that the secret to getting your next role could be a positive attitude.

Securing a role is as much about your potential employer liking you and your ability to build relationships as it is your previous experience or qualifications. An engaging, positive attitude helps you to sell yourself to potential employers.

You’re probably thinking that this is easier said than done; indeed, positivity is one of the hardest qualities to master during a job search. The following hints and tips can help you stay positive.

Routine

If you’re out of work, make sure to stick to a daily routine. The most unsettling aspect of being without a job can be the lack of structure in your day. Use your job search as the foundation for a new routine by treating it like you would your job. Make an effort to get up at a regular time each day, and set a specific time when you will start working on your search.

This can also help you to focus on the things you can control rather than the elements you can’t, such as when a recruiter will call you back. Take charge of your day and you’ll find your next role in no time.

Goals

Set achievable goals that break your job hunt down into bite-sized chunks. For instance, commit to writing five cover letters a day or attending two job fairs a month. How about completing your profile on RICS Recruit to increase your chances of being found by potential employers?

And when you achieve your goals, celebrate the small victories. From getting a telephone interview to gaining a new LinkedIn connection, give yourself a reward.

Network

Keeping in touch with those business contacts you already have will help you to stay ahead of the game when it comes to new job opportunities.

However, also consider talking to people about their experiences. Since job hunting is a solitary activity, this can help to remind you that it is hard on everyone, as well as being an opportunity to gain some new ideas.

Move on

Be sure to move on quickly once you’ve submitted a job application. It’s important to keep in mind what you have applied for, but don’t get bogged down waiting for a response.

Remember that job hunting does involve a degree of luck, so try not to take knockbacks too personally. Manage your expectations – not every application will be a success.

Look after yourself

Take care of your health. Periods of transition can quickly up your stress levels and deplete your energy reserves. Monitor everything from the quality of your sleep to your diet, and be sure to talk about things that are bothering you.

Transitional times provide a great opportunity for self-improvement and gaining some perspective on what you want from life. Your life is much more than your job search. Make time to do things that aren’t related to job hunting, such as exercising or a creative hobby.