Searching for a new job requires a clear message and needs to be carried out strategically and methodically. But even the best job-search campaign is a painful process filled with rejection. It takes grit and a positive mindset to endure and secure your next job. Don’t let any of the following obstacles sabotage your job search.
[See: 10 Ways You’re Inadvertently Broadcasting Your Job Search.]
Any job will do. Have you reached the point where you hate your job so much, any job would be better? The truth is, you wouldn’t be happy doing any job. There’s a difference between being open to new opportunities and accepting any next opportunity. You may be eager to leave your current role, but in order to find a job you’ll enjoy more, you’ll need to do some self-reflection and research. One easy way to start the process is to make a list of all the things you enjoy doing in your current job and in past jobs. Also add what you like about your work environment; for example, do you enjoy working with dedicated co-workers or the ability to work remotely? Now, begin researching jobs and companies that fit your list of criteria. You can share what you are looking for and brainstorm ideas with people in different industries. Being vague, or worse, sounding desperate, about the job you are looking for leads to a frustrating and prolonged job search. You can’t find what you are looking for if you can’t define it.
Training needed. Don’t expect your future employer to provide training on skills that are required for the job. Training is time-consuming and costly and employers prefer to keep training costs down. If you notice you lack experience with a specific computer program, for example, that is required for jobs you are interested in, find a way to learn that program. Look into online courses, community colleges or even hire someone privately. But more important than training is experience. Take on a project that allows you to use your new skill.
[See: The 8 Stages of a Winning Job Search.]
Seeking stability. It would be nice to not worry about losing your job. You want that feeling of security and you aren’t alone; humans crave stability. While there may be a few jobs that are less vulnerable, the days of lifetime employment are over. Instead of searching for stability, focus on finding a job where you can grow your experience which may open up new opportunities in the future. You want to stay valuable and marketable to future employers. It is up to you to manage how you package and promote your skills to stay in demand. Unfortunately, this does require more effort, but it creates career stability; a security of knowing that you have what employers are looking for.
Age discrimination. Age discrimination happens on both ends of the spectrum. Being too young usually means you don’t have the skills and experience to perform the job. Being too old can mean your skills are out of date and your salary requirements are too high for the job you are interested in. The real issue you want to address as you prepare for a job search is whether you have the skills to do the job you are interested in. Provide proof you have the right skills, demonstrate your commitment to your profession by staying current on trends and technology and target the appropriate-level role. Your age is just a number; combating age discrimination is up to you.
[See: 8 Things That Are More Productive Than Staring at a Job Board.]
Short-timer. Too often, job seekers who find themselves unemployed later in their careers say, “I just need something to keep me working for five more years.” You may be planning your retirement, but never say it publicly. It sends a message that you won’t be fully committed to the job. While this probably isn’t true, the reality is that few employers would want to hire you if they sensed you weren’t going to give the job everything you’ve got. And even if you are planning to retire in a few years, your situation could change. You may decide you either want or need to work longer. Don’t give a prospective employer a reason to not consider you seriously.
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5 Ways You Are Sabotaging Your Job Search originally appeared on usnews.com
