Challenge Versus Support
Tom Jackson, the author of Guerrilla Tactics in the Job Market, paints a vivid picture of the job search: “NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO YES!” This description is not meant to discourage but to empower. It’s a reminder that every NO is a step closer to a YES, especially as you use the best marketing tools and job search strategies. So, embrace the NOs, for they are the fuel that propels you towards your YES.
A job search has exciting moments, such as making great contacts, being called for an interview, or receiving a job offer. However, job hunting also has challenges, such as hearing NOs repeatedly. For example, if you apply to 50 job openings and do not receive a single interview, you will likely feel discouraged, stressed, and anxious. The challenge of a successful job search can feel overwhelming at times.
During the challenging times of job hunting, having a solid support system is crucial to keep you motivated. This support can come from various sources:
- Professional career coaches.
- A friend or family member with whom you can regularly discuss your job search.
- Leisure activities to rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit.
- Spiritual practices.
With a balance of challenge and support, your job search can be a season of personal and professional growth that bolsters your confidence in your abilities to reach your career and life goals.
Building Your Support Team
Establishing a support team for your job search can be a game-changer. Your support team is a valuable resource that can help you stay motivated, focused, and well-informed throughout your job search.
Here are steps to help you build a supportive network:
1. Identify Your Needs
Determine the areas where you need support, including resume review, interview preparation, networking, emotional encouragement, or industry insights.
2. Reach Out to Friends and Family
Inform your close friends and family about your job search and ask if they would be willing to provide support. Use your Personal Contact Cover Letter and follow up with a phone call. Your friends and family can offer encouragement, share job leads, and help you stay positive.
3. Connect with Peers
Join professional groups related to your industry or job type, either online or in person. Identify associations you can join using Google searches and LinkedIn.com.
Engage with peers who are also job hunting; they can provide valuable insights, share experiences, and even pass along job opportunities.
4. Networking Events
Attend industry-specific networking events, job fairs, and meetups. These events allow you to meet professionals, potential mentors, and others who can offer guidance. These events are often found on professional association websites.
5. Utilize Social Media
Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions. Social media can be a powerful tool for expanding your network and receiving support.
6. Create a Mentorship Relationship
Seek out a mentor who can provide guidance based on their own experiences. A mentor can offer advice, share industry knowledge, and help you navigate your career path.
7. Professional Organizations
Join professional organizations related to your field. Attend events and engage with members who can offer support, advice, and potentially job leads. Searching Google will help you to find appropriate professional organizations for your field. The Career Fit Test Search Tool in your Premium Career Fit Test Report can also help you to find top associations for your job target.
8. Online Forums
Participate in online forums and communities related to your industry or job search. Websites like Reddit, Quora, or specialized job search platforms can help you get advice and support from a broader audience.
9. Career Counseling Services
Consider seeking professional career counseling services. Career counselors can provide personalized guidance, help you set goals, and refine your job search strategy.
10. Stay Accountable
Establish regular check-ins with your support team, such as weekly or bi-weekly meetings, during which you discuss your progress, challenges, and goals.
11. Express Gratitude
Acknowledge and express gratitude to your support team for their assistance. Writing thank you emails and notes regularly helps maintain positive relationships and encourages ongoing support.
Remember, building a support team is not just about receiving help but also about contributing and supporting your team of supporters. Networking is a two-way street, and being an active and engaged member of your support team can lead to mutual benefits.
The Greatest Trait of a Successful Job Hunter
One of the most incredible things your support can help you with is persistence. Persistence is known as the most significant trait of a job hunter. Without persistence, the job search strategies in the previous steps will not work well. Many job hunters have given up because of discouragement. Job search work is hard even when you are using all the best marketing tools and job search strategies.
Summary
Intentionally developing a support system and the trait of persistence will significantly increase your chances of finding work that you love. Who must you invite as a support team member for your job search?