JOB SEARCH TIPS
5 Ways to Maintain
Job Search Momentum
Kara Molesworth
Resume Writer, Recruiter, Job Search Partner
October 25, 2017
Remember being a kid trying to swing? Remember how hard it was to get started without a push? You’d kick your legs out, then bend your legs under – kick out, bend under, kick out, bend under. Little by little, you’d start to swing – slowly at first – then faster and higher. Soon you’d get going so high that the metal legs of the swing set would start lifting up! Then you’d jump off and feel like you’re flying!
But then you’d get back on that swing and your momentum would be all gone. You’d have to start all over again. And getting back that movement – that momentum – was hard work.
Momentum in a job search is the same.
MOMENTUM
/mōˈmen(t)əm/
noun
The force or energy gained by a moving object.
Just keep swinging. You might get turned down for jobs. Keep swinging. You might send your resume in and not get a call back. Keep swinging. Momentum is the number one key to job search success.
Here are 5 ways to keep the momentum in your job search:
1. Commit to a certain amount of time each day
You might have a full time job that takes time away from your search. You might have a family, carpools or school projects that take up your time. But you can set aside at least 20 minutes per day to work on improving your career. Some days you’ll be able to spend more time, and that’s great. But if you can spend at least 20 minutes per day on it, you will keep your momentum going and good things will happen!
2. Make a master list of (small) things to do
Break your to-do list down into small jobs that are not too overwhelming. For example, instead of “Update my LinkedIn Profile”, break it down into:
- Write my LinkedIn profile summary
- Update my LinkedIn experience for one position
- Find three relevant companies to follow on LinkedIn
Your to-do list should make you feel productive. Checking off tasks is a great feeling! Don’t let it be a depressing list of tasks that are so big that they keep you from getting things done! Keep them small and keep checking them off – you can do this!
3. Think positively
Positive thinking is not something that just happens to you. You have to work at it. It’s easy to feel discouraged when you’re looking to recharge your career. Don’t let it take over. When you’re feeling down, take a moment to visualize being in your dream job. Now smile – I mean physically smile. Our facial expressions can actually influence our emotions, not just the other way around. If you’re still feeling down, keep in mind that tomorrow will be a new day. In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt: “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts”.
With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.
4. Find a support system
There are plenty of online job search groups that you can join. Find a group that you can bounce ideas off, celebrate successes and trade tips. Look for groups on Facebook, LinkedIn or on many job search websites. Even better, join a local job search networking group that meets weekly or monthly. If you can’t find one – start one!
5. Take care of yourself
It’s important to take care of yourself. Take a walk. Get plenty of sleep. Pay attention to your breathing. Drink water. Do something you enjoy. A job you love is important, but taking care of yourself and staying healthy is vital.
Good luck with your job search! And remember – keep swinging!!