What better time than the advent of spring to spring into action? Try these five steps to kick your job search into high gear...
5 Steps To Kick Your Job Search Into High Gear
Can you feel it? Spring is in the air! Slowly but surely, the birds are reappearing, the air is warming, and soon flowers will be poking their heads through the soil. What better time than the advent of spring to spring into action?
Here are five steps to kick your job search into high gear:
1. Partner up
Want to reduce stress and add meaning to your job search? Partner up with a job search buddy! A job-seeking friend can add perspective to your search. You can attend networking events together and reflect on your approach and successes. Partnering with a supportive job seeker also provides a sense of accountability, which is key to keeping you on track!
2. Give back
How are you giving to others during your job search? Volunteering is an important part of the process for several reasons. The opportunity to work with others in an organization you enjoy adds meaning to your schedule and your life. It also affords you the opportunity to build your network. Volunteering is an excellent “gap filler,” as it shows other professionals and organizations what you do with your time while in transition.
3. Move ahead
What obstacles are preventing you from moving ahead in your job search? Typically fear of the unknown is the greatest one. Perhaps you are still angry or hurt over the way you left your former employer. Maybe you loved your old job and you cannot envision yourself in a new environment. Often, we want to play it safe by staying within the confines of our comfort zone. These are all real issues that can hold you back, but living like this will stagnate you and prevent you from being successful. It’s time to let go of the past and move ahead to the next opportunity that awaits you.
4. Dream big
What is it that you really want to do? Break into a new field? Start your own company? Reinvent yourself professionally? Take control of your job search and make your dreams a reality! Who do you need to meet? Build your network. How do you navigate a new process? Talk to the experts. Only you can hold yourself back. Allow yourself to dream big…and then make those dreams a reality.
5. Hold on
Finally, it is important for you to hold on. Hold onto your faith when you cannot see the next step. Hold onto your friends and family for the emotional support you need throughout this process. Hold onto the values that make you who you are so you do not settle for mediocrity. Hold onto your dignity when circumstances threaten your level of confidence. Finally, hold onto hope that your steps toward success will pay off in a big way!
It’s time to start a new chapter in your life. Now…spring ahead!
Next month’s topic: Overcoming Fear in Your Job Search
