Job search is a challenging, time-consuming task, even under the best of circumstances. Almost every job seeker starts off with the same lofty goal: They all want to land their dream position and they all want it fast.
Sadly, hiring doesn’t always move as quickly as most job seekers would like. A few months into the process, it’s easy to get disenchanted. Add a few more months without a solid offer, and it’s totally natural to feel a little panicky.
In truth, job searching is a marathon, not a sprint. Sure, you’ll always hear stories of the lucky few who landed new jobs in less than 30 days. But rest assured: Those situations are the rare exceptions.
The general rule of thumb is this: For every $10,000 per year you expect to earn in income, plan for one month of job search. So, if you’re expecting to make about $60,000 per year, your job search should take about six months. This is, of course, only a rough estimation. With the right resume and the right contacts, it could be faster. And, if you’re looking to shift to a new career path, it could take even longer.
[See: The 8 Stages of a Winning Job Search.]
Regardless of such “rules,” it’s easy to get discouraged by a prolonged job search. The tedious nature of the process — and the inevitable self-reflection it inspires — can weigh you down after a period of time. You start to question your every move and wonder if you’ve been living in a fantasy to even think such a job change were possible.
If you’ve been searching for a new job and it’s taking longer than you think it should, here are five important steps to get your search back on track.
Manage the Emotions
People often discount the emotional aspects of job search, but that can have devastating consequences. Financial stress, desperation and panic can lead to bad decisions. Wallowing in self-doubt and self-pity will only harm your confidence. All of these feelings are natural, but they aren’t serving you.
Whatever you’re feeling, acknowledge it and work to channel that energy in a positive direction. Take the time you need to care for yourself emotionally. Spend time with friends and family and engage in leisure activities that have nothing to do with job search. You’ll return to your search refreshed and in a better position to handle the ups and downs ahead of you.
[See: The 25 Best Jobs of 2018.]
Consider Short-Term Solutions
For some people, it makes sense to consider part-time, project-based or consulting work as an interim solution between jobs. This can help ease the financial strain and give you some much needed breathing room. Plus, you can still continue your job search in your off hours. Don’t let your ego or preconceived ideas of what “should” happen prevent you from looking at all options.
Stick to a Routine
It’s always helpful to keep a consistent routine with your job search activities. All too often, people get excited and pour a ton of time and energy into their search. Then, feeling exhausted and disappointed, they neglect it for a period of time. After a while, they again feel inspired and hit the proverbial pavement hard, starting the cycle once more. Don’t fall into this pattern of behavior. Instead, aim for consistent, sustainable effort. It’ll feel better and you’ll see better results.
Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
If you’ve been engaged in the same job search activities for a while, it may be time to try some new strategies. Sure, it can be hard to get out of your comfort zone, but clearly the tactics you’re using aren’t getting the results you want. Check out a few new networking groups, for example. Explore some new job websites, try a new resume format or switch up your LinkedIn profile. Trial and error is often the best way to learn what works and what doesn’t. So, if things aren’t working, it’s time for some new trials.
[See: The 12 Best Jobs That Help People.]
Consult an Expert
Lastly, if your job search is taking more time than you’d like, consider working with a career counselor or coach.
Let’s face it: You’re not an expert at job searching. This isn’t what you do for a living! It’s not surprising you may struggle a bit. But there are plenty of people out there who are experts — and they’re available to help you.
A career counselor or coach can help you refine your search strategies, identify areas for improvement in your resume and help you upgrade your interview skills. They can help you better understand what the market is looking for and how you fit in. They may also be able to point out gaps in knowledge or experience that may be holding you back.
In short, a career expert can help you see things you aren’t currently seeing. If you’ve been job searching for six months or more without success, it’s time to invest in yourself. You may find that a few simple tweaks have an immediate, powerful impact.
Remember that finding a new job is, almost inevitably, a long and tedious process. But it’s worth it. Be patient and persistent — and also be smart about it. Use all of the tools at your disposal to make your search faster and easier.
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How to Cope With a Prolonged Job Search originally appeared on usnews.com
