Logo cityjoboffers

Recruitment

The job search can be tough: how can you stay motivated?
avatar image

Written by Natalie Barresi

Branded Content Creator
image

Hacks to stay motivated when looking for a job

Looking for a job is one of the hardest jobs there is. Staying motivated can be just as hard but don’t worry because there’s plenty of tips and tricks to make the process less overwhelming.

When your mind is healthy and you feel inspired to look for a job, that’s when you’ll start seeing the best results.

So what hacks can help reduce stress during your job search?

Set reasonable expectations

Be realistic. Look for jobs that you know you have the skills for and will enjoy. If you’re constantly applying for jobs that you’re not qualified for, you won’t find a role where you can shine.

Make a schedule and stick to it

If you plan out and organize your job search, it will make it easier and allow you to have time for the other important things in your life.  

Decide how long you want to spend working on your CV or cover letter and how much you want to spend looking for job offers. Make sure to schedule time for yourself to disconnect and recharge!

Customize your resume for every application

It may take more time, but if you use specific keywords from the description of each job that you want to apply for in your CV, it can make it easier for recruiters to find you.

This also can help you reach more employers and will help you receive better results. Headhunters look for these keywords in CVs, so including them will make them more likely to call you for an interview.

Take a break from the job search

The job search is tiring: looking for the right job offers, applying, preparing for interviews, editing your CV, and so on.  

Take a week off (or at least just some days off) from the job search. Take time for yourself and your hobbies, friends, family, and just disconnect.  

This mini break will help you get your energy back and be able to get right back into looking for the perfect job for you.

Be prepared for interview questions

Prepping for what recruiters might ask you is a key way to reduce stress and make you more confident in a job interview.

Practice answering the most challenging questions and ones that are more specific to your sector or the role.  

There’s no need to overthink the questions, just be honest and tailor your answers to the job description.

Make sure you understand company culture before applying

If you don’t fit a company culture, you most likely won’t enjoy working there.

Save yourself the hassle and look through an employer’s social media and site information to find out more about their values and work environment. If it doesn’t suit you, don’t waste your time applying.

Shut down negative thoughts with positive ones

Don’t let your head fill with negative thoughts. The job search can be difficult and it is crucial that you stay positive and recognize your own worth.  

Avoid thinking negative thoughts about yourself and try using positive affirmations each morning. You might not feel confident but fake it until you make it. If you tell yourself positive things everyday, you’ll begin to believe it.

Create milestones

Giving yourself goals to meet can help break down the job search. This will make it less overwhelming. Use 30, 60 and 90-day milestones.  

Author and workplace equity consultant, Minda Harts, says that by breaking down the process, you will feel less stressed. This allows you to be more focused and motivated when looking for a job.

Surround yourself with positivity

Humans are constantly bombarded by information and unfortunately, a large portion of it is negative. Try to avoid seeing negative news stories and surround yourself with people that make you happy and support you.

If you spend time with people that are overly positive, it might become discouraging and people who are negative will cause you to lose motivation. Find the right kind of people and let them help and inspire you.

Don’t compare your skills and experiences to others’

One of the worst things you can do during the job search process is compare yourself to others. It won’t help you find a job.

Focus on your skills and experience and what makes you unique.  What can YOU offer a company to help them grow? No one else is exactly like you, so use that to keep yourself motivated.

Take notes from rejections

Rejection is, while not an enjoyable experience, a key part of searching for a job. The feeling of disappointment can make it hard to continue the job search.  

Don’t dwell on these feelings, use them to your advantage. Avoid gaslighting yourself about your worth and think about what can be improved.

💡In a job interview, every detail matters even your body language! What are some gestures to avoid if you want to get a follow-up interview? Learn more →

Click here to discover your next job opportunity

Latest articles
Here you will discover how to find your deram job, carrer tips, relocation advice, work and travel stories.