How to Handle Job Search Burnout: Tips for Staying Motivated

A long and drawn-out job search can be one of the most emotionally draining experiences. You know you’re qualified, but you’re either getting radio silence or rejections. After a long enough time of this cycle repeating, you can start to question yourself and feel burnt out, wondering if the right opportunity will ever come along. Confidence and motivation can wane and you could even start to lose hope.

At Technical Search Consultants, we know that finding your next job can be a difficult journey. Our trained job search consultants are here to help. Read on for tips on how to stay the course and contact us if you’re ready to get started on your next job search!

How Long Should A Job Search Last?

Clearly this is one of those “it depends” sort of questions, since there are countless variables at play and things will vary greatly by industry. Seniority level and economic conditions also factor into the search. However, as a ballpark figure, we can say that many job seekers find a position within 3-6 months’ time. But if you find yourself still looking for a job after the six month mark, you might be staring down a longer than average job search process. Other factors that contribute to a difficult job search could include high competition, not applying for the right jobs, neglecting networking, and not targeting applications to the right companies. But these responsibilities don’t fall entirely on your shoulders–many businesses go about their recruitment process in a less than efficient way. Working with a job search consultant is the best way for job seekers and employers alike to find what they’re looking for.

Identifying The Signs of Job Search Burnout

Are you starting to feel disheartened, starting to believe that you simply aren’t cut out for this and might not ever find the job you’re looking for? Then you’re likely burnt out. Here are some clearer indications:

• Feelings of discouragement
• Lost motivation and energy
• Feeling like efforts are pointless
• Questioning skills, worth, or career choices
• Self-doubt, hopelessness
• Numbness, apathy, frustration, and emotional exhaustion

When these feelings begin to pervade your thoughts and when you start to also notice problems with your mood, sleep, and interpersonal relationships, then you know you need to take action. 

The rejection, lack of responsiveness from potential employers, financial stress, lack of routine, and isolation can get the best of you. But take heart–there are ways to combat job search burnout and stay motivated to find that ideal position.

How to Stay Motivated During a Long Job Search

Staying motivated during a long job search is a balance act that consists of an array of actions, habits, and processes that will keep you going, even when things get tough. Some key things to do include:

• Stay engaged: it’s easy to go on autopilot and start to feel that your efforts don’t matter, but thoughtful, intentional applications are always best, and a way to take back control of what can otherwise feel like a very arbitrary situation that is out of your control

• Stick to your plan: develop your own personal job search marketing plan, set goals for regular activities and inputs, set a daily routin,e and prioritize activities during your peak performance hours–reward yourself when you hit your targets and take breaks to refocus

• Stay balanced: use a measured and intentional approach–not an all-in, 24/7 mindset–while remaining patient and persistent; spend some of your time giving to others and rediscovering things you love

• Strategize self-care: keep active mentally and physically, take time for yourself, prioritize health, find ways to cope with stress, get outside, and foster positive thinking

• Celebrate small things: even small wins and minor progress are worth noting and dwelling on–consider keeping track of successes and positive moments

Well-meaning family and friends may ask innocent questions that can feel overwhelming, so it’s also a good idea to have some practiced responses to common questions and unsolicited advice to make these easier to navigate. At the same time, many of these folks are also ready to be your support system–take them up on that offer! And if you find that you need emotional support beyond what they can give, please do prioritize your mental wellbeing and seek professional help where necessary. If you keep yourself as well as possible, you’ll have the strength, stamina, and dedication you need to keep going in your job search, even if it feels like it’s dragging. 

Keep in mind that most of the negative responses you get aren’t personal–many hiring decisions are guided instead by internal company dictates like timing, budget, and specific needs and preferences. While you wait it out, set small, reachable goals for yourself, take a break when needed, and come back to the hunt with renewed vigor and determination.

Consider Working With a Staffing Agency in Cleveland

While sometimes a long job search can arise from a specific set of circumstances or be more common in certain industries, it could also be a sign that it’s time to adjust your strategy. Maybe it’s time for a more targeted approach. With the help of a job search consultant, you may be better able to effectively assess what’s working, what’s not, and how you can make key changes to get your desired outcome. Our experienced temp agency search consultants can plug in their know-how to your situation and help you find a better path forward. Contact us, Technical Search Consultants, today to learn more and revamp your job search strategy.