How to Keep A Positive Attitude During A Frustrating Job Search

Rejections of applications that produce nothing but deafening silence, waiting (and waiting) for callbacks after interviews. when it comes to job hunting, there are many things that can spoil your mood. While you can curl up with Netflix and a cup of Ben & Jerry’s, sooner or later you have to pick yourself up and try to keep a positive attitude during a frustrating job search.

Enthusiastic applicants attract the attention of hiring managers, so do what you can to shake off a negative attitude. These expert suggestions can put you in a better mood.

How to maintain a positive attitude during a frustrating job search

Focus on what you can do.

Much of what happens during a hiring process is out of your control. Instead of feeling like you are at the mercy of employers, look for ways to take back the power.

“Waiting on the phone for someone to call you back or respond to your email is an emotional disaster waiting to happen,” says Henry Goldbeck of Goldbeck Recruiting. “The most important thing to do in your job search is to focus on the things that are within your control. If you focus on your research, your applications, your follow-up, your networking, your strategizing, etc., you will feel much better about yourself and your job search. Every activity is an asset to you and brings you closer to employment – and it’s in your hands.”

Surround yourself with positivity.

Do you have some Debbie Downers in your life? Allow yourself to avoid them during this difficult time.

“It’s never helpful to hear, ‘I don’t want to be in your shoes!” says Sally Srok, director of Inner Compass Consulting. “Your energy is your most valuable asset. Protect it.” She notes that you might even want to create a response to naysayers, such as, “Actually, it’s an exciting time for me. Who knows what’s next!”

And keep up those good vibes at every opportunity. “Write affirmations on post-its to put in your car or on the bathroom mirror. Say positive things to yourself. Literally, say them out loud. It works!” says Srok.

Don’t take rejection personally.

Yes, this may be easier said than done. Job search rejections hurt. But employers have a variety of reasons for their choices.

“Some companies advertise a job that is actually already meant for a specific person applying for it internally, and external applicants have little to no chance in such a selection process,” says international career coach Rebeca Gelencser. “Some jobs are simply eliminated for financial reasons and applicants never hear from the company again. I used to work as a recruiter and remember very clearly finding a great candidate for a job that was advertised on Monday and then deleted on Tuesday. That was not easy to explain or digest.”

Continuous confidence in your own abilities will eventually lead you to where you want to be. Work continuously to be your best by revising your CV, developing new skills, and practicing for interviews – knowing that there is a good match out there somewhere.

Think of the ultimate goal.

Remember why you are embarking on this journey. Put up a picture of the new car you plan to trade in your old clunker for once you find a job. Create a Pinterest board with pictures and words where you envision your dream career.

“You won’t be unemployed forever,” says Srok. “The right career opportunity will come along and it will all be behind you. That’s my promise.”

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